With all that in mind, who should the manager select for the trip to Crystal Palace this evening? Our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy picks his starting XI, and makes a system switch away from the recent flirtation with three at the back.
Here’s his one to 11, in a 4-2-3-1 system...
1. Goalkeeper: Karl Darlow
The time will come when a decision must be made between Darlow and Martin Dubravka, but for now the former Nottingham Forest man holds the shirt - and deservedly so! Photo: LEE SMITH
2. Right-back: Javier Manquillo
The defender was recalled against Chelsea and did little to make a case to be dropped. Plays on the right, for me, in a back four. With a five, Jacob Murphy would likely be in there. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
3. Centre-back: Federico Fernandez
We saw the armband rejection last week but don't let that cloud your views on the Argentine. United's best of the bunch at the back, consistently. Photo: Alex Pantling
4. Centre-back: Ciaran Clark
Another reliable defender who does the basics very well. Starts ahead of Fabian Schar due to his superior defensive work. Photo: Alex Pantling