Preview: MK Dons vs. Manchester United

Manchester United have entered the League Cup in the second round for the first time in 19 years and travel to League One side MK Dons later tonight.

Last year's seventh-place finish in the Premier League meant that the Red Devils failed to qualify for any European competition, missing out on a bye into the third round.

That Premier League slump ultimately saw David Moyes lose his job as manager and the man who has replaced him, Louis van Gaal, is still searching for a first win.

Opening fixtures against Swansea City and Sunderland will have had United fans licking their lips, but just one point has been accrued after a home loss to Swansea and away point at the Stadium of Light.

Van Gaal has a lengthy injury list to deal with, but he won't be able to give new Argentines Marcos Rojo or Angel di Maria their debuts at stadium:mk. Rojo's work permit is yet to come through, while Di Maria's transfer from Real Madrid is still to be finalised.

Chris Smalling and Ander Herrera might pass fitness tests, but neither is likely to be risked. Jonny Evans is expected to return, though.

For the hosts, Karl Robinson has seen his MK side begin the League One season well. The Dons have picked up seven points from their opening four league fixtures and sit seventh in the early table.

Danny Green was sidelined for the goalless draw against Coventry City on Saturday, but has told Sports Mole that he is desperate to overcome a hamstring injury and play against the club he supported growing up.

Tonight's game might come too soon for the winger and he could miss out along with goalkeeper David Martin and full-back Lee Hodson. Samir Carruthers should be available to start.

MK reached the second round by defeating AFC Wimbledon, who are also associated with the old Wimbledon, in their second-ever meeting.

When Man United were last in the second round in 1995 they lost 4-3 to York City over two legs. Tonight's match will be the first time that they have faced MK Dons.

Recent form

MK Dons: DWLWW

Man Utd: DL

Possible starting lineups

MK Dons: McLoughlin; Baldock, Lewington, Kay, McFadzean; Alli, Potter; Powell, Carruthers, Reeves; Afobe

Man Utd: Amos; Keane, Evans, Blackett; Valencia, Cleverley, Kagawa, Young; Januzaj; Welbeck, Hernandez

Sports Mole says: 1-3