Ralf Rangnick has picked his first starting XI as Manchester United boss with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line.

The Red Devils host Crystal Palace, who have won on each of their last two visits to Old Trafford, aiming to pick up three points in the league for just the third time since mid September.

Rangnick has succeeded Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the dugout, but will be assisted by several of the Norwegian's former assistant.

The German has picked Victor Lindelof alongside Harry Maguire at the heart of defence.

Donny van de Beek has been named on the bench having been shunned for much of Solskjaer's tenure.

Rangnick has only had one training session with his United players, meaning he has little to go off thus far.

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The German is tasked with ensuring the club rise up the table having fallen out of the top four race, with Champions League qualification a must.

Rangnick is renowned for playing with a clear philosophy - and it will be interesting to see how much information the squad have been able to consume in a short space of time.

He addressed the media for the first time on Friday and said: "Obviously, I have watched the last few games, not only last night’s game but also the games against both Watford and Chelsea, before I knew actually if there was going to be any contact in the next few days.

"I also watch, out of interest, the games against Liverpool and Manchester City. I'm pretty well aware and acquitted of what’s going on here within both the club and in the Premier League.

"I think it’s also obvious the team has an abundance of young talent, and enough experienced players in the squad, but the target for me is to bring more balance in the team."

He also added: "Speaking to the players and letting them know what the approach will be, it will not be easy in the middle of the season.

"I am fully aware and I have enough experience to know you cannot change everything in 1-2 days or even 1-2 weeks, other Germans have had the same experience who have come to the Premier League.

Ralf Rangnick will manage his first Premier League game at Old Trafford

"It’s about winning games and I’m very ambitious like everybody in the club."

Following the Palace clash Rangnick will prepare his United team for a Champions League clash with Young Boys. Safe passage into the last 16 has already been secured.

After that the Red Devils face a run of games against Norwich City, Brentford, Brighton and Newcastle United.

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