Risky business

By Chris,
September 22 2008

Sir Alex Ferguson is set to make plenty of changes to his Manchester United line-up for Tuesday's League Cup clash with Middlesbrough. Are we risking another early exit or is this the perfect opportunity to give the youngsters a chance to impress? Manucho could make his United debut, whilst Cristiano Ronaldo hopes to make another appearance as he continues his comeback from injury.

Manucho is finally available for selection after the club secured the Angolan striker a work permit to play in England. He's set to make his debut against Boro after a long loan spell with Greek side Panathinaikos last season.

Gary Neville, Owen Hargreaves and Nani are some of the experienced names in United's match-day squad but Fergie will make plenty of changes from the side that drew at Stamford Bridge.

The likes of Ben Amos, James Chester, Adam Eckersley and Sam Hewson are all in the squad as the United boss once again gambles on his Carling Cup team selection.

Last season, a packed Old Trafford - forced to attend thanks to the Automatic Cup Scheme - witnessed a young United side produce a spineless display and crash out with defeat to Coventry. ACS rules have now been relaxed slightly and hopefully the Reds' fringe players can give a better account of themselves this season.

Middlesbrough have problems in attack with Mido and Tuncay both injured. They've lost three league games on the spin - against Liverpool, Portsmouth and Sunderland and will be keen to turn their fortunes around.