Manchester United linked with Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

Here is how Manchester United can qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League. They have one match remaining, and I’m just going to copy and paste the United bit:

A draw would ensure Manchester United top the group and they only need to avoid a four-goal defeat to finish above CSKA Moscow. Basel will qualify if they better CSKA’s result, or if both teams draw or lose. If Basel won, CSKA would need a three-goal win at Old Trafford to qualify.

United have decided not to appeal the red card that Paul Pogba got for standing on Hector Bellerin’s leg during the match against Arsenal last weekend. That means he’s out for the game against City, giving Luke Shaw the chance to shine as an inverted full-back, shunted inside and centrally placed. Tactics.

He will get his chance to prove his fitness in the Champions League game against CSKA Moscow, too, as Mourinho says he ‘deserves’ some time on the pitch. Expect him to come on with two minutes of added time remaining, all to prove his worth to potential January suitors.

Nemanja Matic is another one with fitness concerns, after Mourinho said he is injured. He’s not going to play against CSKA, but there is still a chance that he could return for the game against Manchester City at the weekend. Otherwise, United will be going with Ander Herrera, and maybe even Scott McTominay. Oh dear.

According to this, United are interested in Lazio’s 22-year-old Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, with Mourinho sending scouts to monitor the player. He is represented by Mateja Kezman who has been talking up interest from United and other European clubs. Expect any move to happen after the World Cup next year.

And Pogba might have got his wish: David Silva could be out of the game at the weekend with an injury.