Another Manchester United squad, another untried defender on the bench.
Louis Van Gaal’s defensive cover is so thin Jose Mourinho is trying to coax Real Madrid defenders to Old Trafford, but for now the Dutchman is having to promote youngsters from the academy.
Following on from Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Paddy McNair we now have Donald Love riding the pine at the Stadium of Light this afternoon.
Borthwick-Jackson is practically a veteran at this stage, holding down the left full-back spot, with Matteo Darmian on the other flank, but should either man need to be withdrawn the 21-year-old Love could see some action.
Born in Rochdale but capped by Scotland under-21 was awarded a squad number – 37 – just this week after making eight appearances while on loan at Wigan. This is the right full-back’s first appearance in a senior squad after signing professional terms in 2013.
He has been a regular in the Under-21 side, impressing on the right side of the defence, making 18 appearances last season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuxUA38xFD0
At the club since the age of seven, this could be a huge day for the young defender whose progress has been hampered by injuries.
There is also room on the depleted bench for midfielder James Weir, who joined the club from Preston North End as a teenager and has come up through United’s under-18 and under-21 ranks.
Will Keane, who scored a wonder-goal for the under-21s during the week, is also named among the substitutes.
But wouldn’t we all love to Love making his bow on St Valentine’s weekend?
