Will Maguire return to the XI?

Maguire, who returned to the side during United's 3-1 success over Brentford on Tuesday, had missed the previous three games, with Victor Lindelof coming in to partner Raphael Varane for the double-header with Aston Villa and trip to the Bees.

Having suffered an abdominal injury in the victory over Burnley - our final game of 2021 - the England international has had to wait patiently to regain his place in the starting XI.

With Lindelof sitting out of this game to be with his family after a break-in at home, Rangnick says Maguire will lead the team out once more.

Speaking in his pre-match briefing ahead of the Hammers visit, the 63-year old began: “From the first day I arrived Harry [Maguire] played and was already firmly set within the starting XI.

“He picked up an injury in the Burnley game that ruled him out for the next 2-3 games and now he is back to full fitness as he came on against Brentford.

“I explained to him that I didn’t want to change anything because I thought Victor [Lindelof] and Rapha’s [Varane] partnership was doing well.

“With Victor now being out, Harry will play from the beginning tomorrow and again be the captain of the team,” emphasised the United boss.

Given Rangnick's decision to tweak United's shape late on during the victory in West London, the 63-year-old also believes being able to work together as a defensive unit is key to the Reds' on-field success.

“In a back four it is not only the individual performance that counts, but also how they co-operate and how they work together.

“It is not the first time Harry and Rapha will play together, as they have done so quite a few times in the last few months.

“I’m very positive it will be a good partnership once more in tomorrow’s game.”