How United have prepared for Villa showdown

The late finish in the Europa League against Porto led to a planned overnight stay in the city, followed by a morning session at the Estadio do Bessa for 11 members of the squad, all hoping to be involved in our final outing before the international break.

Alejandro Garnacho, as he had played an entire half, was not part of the rigorous practice but each of the other non-starters participated. Kobbie Mainoo was involved, which was a boost after Erik ten Hag declared that the homegrown midfielder was not risked against Porto, after coming off injured in the defeat to Tottenham.

The boss indicated he would have to see if the England international, our only representative in interim manager Lee…