With the Europa League containing an all-English tie in this round, we think that it would be a good idea to see a combined XI of the two sides in the round, Manchester United and Liverpool.
Manchester United avoided an upset to land them a place in the last 16, after they redeemed their 2-1 loss over Midtjylland in the first leg with a very convincing 5-1 thrashing in the second leg. Liverpool managed to squeeze their way past Augsburg, as they won their home leg 1-0, and drew 0-0 with the German side in the away leg.
With these two sides in very inconsistent form in the league, it will be interesting to see who makes our combined XI (Injuries to players will not be taken into consideration):
Goalkeeper: David De Gea
The Spaniard arguably bails his team out on a consistent basis, as it can be said that this season that the United defence has not been up to scratch. Compared with Mignolet is not a small gap, but a large chasm- as Simon Mignolet’s poor decision making and lack of form means he is completely out of the question. De Gea’s fantastic reflexes and proven match-saving earns him a place in the XI.
Left Back: Alberto Moreno
Another Spanish appointment makes our combined XI, and rightly so, as he isn’t just defensively sound but likes to play attractive positive play- often bombing forward to contribute to vital attacks for the Merseyside club.
Centre back: Chris Smalling
Chris Smalling is young, energetic, and defensively capable. It is for this reason that the young Englishman makes our combined XI, he also has a tendency to come forward and attack, which makes him a unique choice for the back line.
Centre back: Phil Jones
Phil Jones is a very versatile player, but plies his trade at centre back very well indeed. He is young, enthusiastic and a very tough player to get past on his day. He is a vital part of the combined XI, and will bolster the defence without a doubt.
Right Back: Nathaniel Clyne
Manchester United seem to be lacking full backs this season, giving Nathaniel Clyne a perfect opportunity to slot into our XI. He is exciting and youthful, much like the other players in the defensive line,.
Left Midfield: Roberto Firmino
Though not his conventional position, Roberto Firming’s Flair and exciting forward play makes him perfect to slot into the side. With 8 goals and 7 assists in the Premier League, the Brazilian player is no doubt a valuable asset to any side he plays in.
Centre Midfield: Juan Mata
Juan Mata is experienced, talented, and is a pivotal part of Manchester United’s midfield. He has vision, commitment, and can not only score goals but assist them too.
Centre Midfield: Phillipe Coutinho
another Brazilian Liverpool midfielder- Coutinho is, on his day, one of the best players in the Premier League. His skill with Dribbling and skilful flare make him a nightmare for defences anywhere, meaning he lands his place firmly in midfield.
Right Midfield: Memphis Depay
The Dutch pocket-rocket was a shoe-in to be included on one of the wings, as his ability to weave around defenders and cause serious issues for the other team, making sure that he earns his place in the combined XI
Centre Forward: Anthony Martial
The £58m man looks more potent in the striker positions, though for this formation he will play slightly behind the main frontman. No other Manchester United player has been able to offer Louis van Gaal a better option in terms of strike force this season, meaning that he takes his place in our combined XI
Striker: Daniel Sturridge
When fit, Daniel Sturridge is a menace to any defensive line. His raw pace and cool finishing means that he leads the line for our combined XI.
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