"Changed the game" - Ruben Amorim hints Manchester United stars will start against Man City

Ruben Amorim was pleased with Mason Mount and Antony's cameo appearances in Manchester United's 2-1 comeback win over Viktoria Plzen in the UEFA Europa League. The duo came off the bench and turned the game on its head after the Red Devils had been trailing.

Antony played a role in Rasmus Hojlund's equaliser, finding Amad Diallo whose shot fell to the Danish striker on the rebound. Mount had two opportunites and rarely put a foot wrong, pressing from the front and looking to make things happen.

Hojlund was at the double for United and looks certain to start against Manchester City in the Manchester Derby on Sunday (December 15). Mount and Antony may have convinced their coach that they should also be brought into his starting XI against the Cityzens.

Ruben Amorim said Mason Mount and Antony 'changed the game'

Amorim was full of praise for Mount and Antony when speaking after Manchester United's victory against Plzen. The Portuguese hailed the duo for helping the Red Devils come away with all three points in Czechia (via Fabrizio Romano):

“Hojlund but also Antony and Mason Mount changed the game. They are there to do that. So I'm very pleased with that, very happy with all of them."

Mount has been a prominent member of Amorim's first team since he replaced Erik ten Hag in November. The English attacker has endured a nightmare spell at Old Trafford since arriving from Chelsea in July 2023 for £60 million amid constant injury issues.

The England international has shown eagerness to get back to his best under Amorim and could be used against City to punish their vulnerable defense. He has all the characteristics befitting that of the new Red Devils head coach's philosophy.

Antony has failed to live up to expectations at United since joining from Ajax in August 2022 for around £85 million. The Brazilian winger was used at left wing-back against Plzen after coming on and could compete with Tyrell Malacia for the role against City.

Marcus Rashford at risk of being dropped

Marcus Rashford started against Plzen but failed to impress amid speculation that he's up for sale heading into the January transfer window. He's been linked with PSG, Barcelona and Bayern Munich and his price-tag is said to be around £40 million.

The English forward was brought off by Amorim after nearly being sent off in Czechia for two bookable offenses. He's done himself no favors regarding a potential start at the Etihad on Sunday.