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Kobbie Mainoo is deployed as a STRIKER for Man United - as Ruben Amorim explains bizarre tactical switch for Crystal Palace clash

Many eyebrows were raised when the Manchester United starting XI was announced for Sunday's clash with Crystal Palace with Kobbie Mainoo apparently being played up top.

There was confusion as the team sheet was posted on social media with no recognised No 9 to be seen despite Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee being fit and available.

Mainoo's name was listed at the bottom of the XI, implying that he would be in a forward role.

And he was seen taking part in the attacking drills at Old Trafford, seemingly confirming that he would be playing as somewhat of a false nine.