Shea Lacey is predicted to start for Manchester United in their Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage. The teenage forward is one of several changes expected as Erik ten Hag's side seeks to halt a run of poor results.

United have lost their last two home games, against Manchester City and Brighton, and were knocked out of the Carabao Cup in midweek after surrendering a two-goal lead. They have taken just four points from their opening four league fixtures this season, leaving them with a negative goal difference of -2. Their recent form, which can be tracked in our standings section, shows a team struggling for consistency. The team's overall stats reveal a pressing need for more creativity and defensive solidity in the final third.

Charlie Malam argued for Lacey's inclusion, saying the player offers vital energy. "Step up Shea Lacey," Malam said. "The teenager took his goal well in midweek and offers the kind of youthful enthusiasm this team desperately needs right now."

Jack McEachen echoed that sentiment, believing Lacey earned a chance. "Shea Lacey was the only player to emerge from the Carabao Cup catastrophe with any sort of credit, and deserves another chance to start in the league," McEachen said.

Defensive reshuffle

Luke Shaw is also forecast to return at left-back after missing recent games with a minor injury. His return from the injuries list is a significant boost for a defence that has been reshuffled frequently. In the centre of defence, Harry Maguire is expected to come back into the side, potentially partnered by either Leny Yoro or Lisandro Martinez.

Several predicted lineups see Kobbie Mainoo returning to midfield, likely alongside Youri Tielemans. Further forward, Bruno Fernandes is set to operate centrally with Marcus Rashford on the left. The right-wing and striker roles appear less settled, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha among the names suggested.

Fulham will host the match sitting 20th in the Premier League table with only one point from four games. Their last outing was a 3-2 away win at West Ham, where goals from Rodrigo Muniz, Cesar Palacios Perez and Oscar Bobb secured the points. Joshua King, who provided an assist in that game, is the club's top scorer this season with two goals.

For United, the game represents a critical opportunity to build momentum before the international break. Their next league fixture is also against Tottenham, scheduled for October 10.

The match kicks off at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

More detail at Daily Express