Definitely think we should start a relatively strong side. It may not be a cup that is viewed as important by many, but our chances of winning the league are slim at best and winning the Champions League will prove a monumental task. We should really be aiming at winning a domestic cup, that, along with a top four finish and I would personally be very happy.
Not too mention that we are not exactly in a position to take each game lightly. Like others have said, we should definitely look at building some momentum, form and continuity in the side over the coming weeks. We should still be looking at starting some of our in-form players and not rewarding players who are in poor form with game time.
With all that in mind, I'd like to see something along the lines of;
de Gea
Rafael - Ferdinand - Evans - Buttner
Valencia - Jones - Cleverley - Nani
Rooney
Welbeck
Subs: Lindegaard, Fabio, Fletcher, Anderson, Giggs, Young, Zaha
This is assuming that none of Vidic, Smalling, Carrick, Kagawa, van Persie or Hernandez return from injury, along with Fellaini (although he's cup-tied anyway).
It's still largely the basis of the team that played Villa, with a few changes, that naturally would need to happen, given the injuries we have. Still, it's rewarding players who played well in the previous game like Welbeck, Valencia and Rafael and I think like Moyes has said, Rooney has to be a constant and ever-present in the side.
Some would be enforced somewhat like Buttner and Rio. It doesn't exactly fill me with confidence seeing their names on the teamsheet, but Buttner did alright against Shakhtar and Fabio probably isn't too sharp given his little game-time this season, that's why I'd opt for him.
Not a lot of impact from the bench if we need a game-changer however. Probably have to look at Giggs and Anderson as the main potential game-changers, so I think it'll be a very tight affair. I don't think Fletcher should start, as it would be wiser to ease him back into the team/
A starting eleven like that would be quite pleasing. Although it is very defensively susceptible - albeit up against a team who possess poor attacking options - but Stoke aren't as physical or direct as they were under Pulis, so Rio will probably fair a bit better. The bench is very weak mind you.
I agree.