Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace: Key Issues That Will Shape EPL Game

Defeat to Manchester City left Manchester United 10th in the Premier League table after 10 games.

It's not the start fans were expecting when Louis van Gaal was appointed and more than £150 million spent on new players during the summer.

United are unbeaten at Old Trafford since the opening day of the season, and they'll need to beat struggling Crystal Palace on Saturday if they are to bounce back quickly from their derby defeat.

Here are the key issues that will shape United's Premier League clash with Crystal Palace this weekend. Feel free to use the comments section below to add your own.

United's Makeshift Back 4

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The biggest issue for Van Gaal heading into United's meeting with Crystal Palace is his threadbare defence. Marcos Rojo's dislocated shoulder will keep him out, while Chris Smalling is suspended after his red card at Manchester City.

There are also injury doubts over Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Rafael. Luke Shaw will play at left-back, while Antonio Valencia will keep his place at right-back if Rafael isn't passed fit.

At centre-half, Van Gaal will have to choose from 19-year-old Paddy McNair, 20-year-old Tyler Blackett and central midfielder Michael Carrick.

Crystal Palace do carry an attacking threat, and their 14 Premier League goals is more than Liverpool and Tottenham.

The ability of United's makeshift back four to stand up to Neil Warnock's side will decide if they come away with all three points. 

Angel Di Maria's Form

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United have been at their best this season when Angel Di Maria has played well—and he's played well when he's seen a lot of the ball.

He played wider against Chelsea and Manchester City, and while he did alright in both games, he wasn't as influential as he perhaps could have been.

If United can get him on the ball in dangerous areas, Crystal Palace won't be able to live with his pace and and skill. 

United's Ability to Keep 11 Men on the Pitch

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It sounds obvious, but Chris Smalling's red card at Manchester City was United's third in 10 Premier League games this season.

At least two of those—Smalling's and Wayne Rooney's against West Ham—were avoidable. 

Smalling's red card cost his team at the Etihad Stadium, and United were lucky not to drop points against West Ham at Old Trafford after Rooney was needlessly sent off in the second half.

Van Gaal can't afford for his players to make irresponsible decisions as he looks to guide his team back toward the top of the table, starting with Crystal Palace's visit to Old Trafford on Saturday.