Mourinho explains Bailly absence

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has explained why he left central defender Eric Bailly out of his line-up to face West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford.

The Ivorian is one of two changes Mourinho has made from the starting XI that went on to win a thrilling Manchester derby last weekend against City. Bailly, who was 24 last Tuesday, played against City in the stunning 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium but his place against Albion goes to Victor Lindelof.

The latter had come off the bench against the Blues to replace Ander Herrera late in the derby victory. Explaining the change, the Reds boss said: "A decision again. Victor played the match against Swansea at home and it was very suited to his qualities.

"Normally, we are going to have more of the ball and, normally, it’s when we need somebody from the back to add extra technical quality in the middle of the back [four].

"We have three matches in a week. Bournemouth in a few days [Wednesday night] then Spurs after a few days again. In that semi-final, they are having one day extra to us to recover so I need also to think about that."

The second change against the Baggies saw Juan Mata, who was on the bench against the Blues, come in to replace Jesse Lingard. Lingard is named among the substitutes. Mourinho said: "I believe, like last week, they (West Brom) will be very compact with two lines of four and no space to play so Mata is one of the players who thinks fastest in my team."