Man Utd play Aston Villa in the early afternoon kickoff on Sunday at Villa Park.

With the news that Robin van Persie is out for at least a month with a thigh injury, the onus is on England striker Wayne Rooney to lead the line for the struggling champions.

Man Utd Team News:

Defence: with Smalling, Vidic and Evra out of the lineup for the midweek win over Shakhtar, Moyes may ring the changes on Sunday.

Rafael may retain his place however, after a strong showing against the Ukrainian champions.

Midfield: With Carrick still out injured, and Fellaini a doubt, Phil Jones and Tom Cleverley should start in the centre.

Nani could come back into the first team fold, with Ashley Young dropping to the bench.

Adnan Januzaj’s good showing midweek could see him land consecutive starting berths.

Forward: Shinji Kagawa is expected to tuck in behind lone striker Wayne Rooney, as David Moyes prepares for an extended period without Van Persie.

Man Utd Form: WWDDLL

Prediction: 1-3 – A return to wining ways for Moyes and his men, but Villa won’t make things easy.