Fellaini Can Step Up

Former Manchester United midfielder Mickey Thomas is hopeful that August acquisition Marouane Fellaini will fill the void left by the injury to midfield mainstay Michael Carrick.

Thomas, now a regular pundit on MUTV, believes Carrick's absence may give Fellaini an opportunity to shine, and is backing the Belgian's physical approach to help the Reds remain on an unbeaten run.

"The midfield is crucial and we must win each game in that area," the Welshman told ManUtd.com. "With Carrick likely to be out, it'll be interesting to see who plays in midfield.

"Personally, I think it might give Fellaini the opportunity to come in and do well," Thomas added. "When he was at Everton he effectively cost United the league in 2012 with his performance at Old Trafford [4-4 draw]. He can provide the aggression in midfield that we need."

The former Red also praised current United winger Antonio Valencia for his impressive recent displays. Thomas feels the Ecuadorian winger could join Fellaini in proving pivotal to the champions' cause heading into the hectic festive period.

"United are coming back into a good run of form," Thomas continued. "Valencia is starting to play well and have a big impact but people have not really been mentioning that. He is starting to get that confidence back into his play, he moves the ball well, and I like that."