Ruben Amorim is considering taking Andre Onana out of the firing line for Manchester United’s trip to Newcastle on Sunday with Altay Bayindir on stand-by to play at St James’ Park.
Onana was at fault for both Lyon’s goals as United were held to a 2-2 Europa League draw in France on Thursday night.
Mail Sport understands that Amorim is set to make a number of changes for the visit to Tyneside and could play his No. 2 keeper Bayindir in goal.
‘We have to face Newcastle with a team that can be competitive to win the game,’ said the United boss.
Andre Onana could be dropped for Man United’s trip to Newcastle on Sunday afternoon
Man United No 2 Altay Bayindir (right) could replace Onana (left) against Newcastle
Onana made two costly mistakes during Man United’s 2-2 draw with Lyon on Thursday night
‘Sometimes winning games is the best way of preparing for the next one. Of course, I am going to be careful with some players but again we need to be competitive.’
Amorim publicly backed Onana in Lyon and United striker Joshua Zirkzee, whose late header looked to have won the tie until the Cameroon international gifted the French side an injury-time equaliser, insisted on Friday that he also has the backing of his teammates.
‘One hundred per cent,’ said Zirkzee. ‘We’re one team, so we’re not going to take someone out for making mistakes. That’s ridiculous.’
However, Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant Mike Phelan believes Amorim’s hand may be forced.
‘That’s the biggest decision as a manager you have to make,’ said Phelan. ‘Is there a No.2 goalkeeper at United capable of taking the No.1 role for the rest of the season? You can’t keep covering up those mistakes.’
Meanwhile United are looking into allegations that their fans were tear-gassed by French police.
The club are said to be gathering facts to establish a clear picture of what happened.
