Macheda given first Utd start

Teenager Federico Macheda was handed his first start for Manchester United as they headed into the FA Cup semi-final against Everton at Wembley without key trio Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

The 17-year-old netted match-winning goals against Aston Villa and Sunderland in his two substitute appearances.

Given United’s hectic schedule, manager Alex Ferguson elected to give some of his regulars a rest, with eight changes from the starting XI which took on Porto in the Champions League.

Ben Foster came into goal, while twin brothers Fabio and Rafael Da Silva also both started, along with Danny Welbeck and Darron Gibson.

Carlos Tevez provided the experience in attack, with Dimitar Berbatov on the bench.

Everton, meanwhile, went for their strongest side possible, which included a start for striker Louis Saha against his former club.

Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini were expected to play in an advanced role for the Toffees, who famously beat United here to win the FA Cup in 1995.

Teenager Jack Rodwell was handed a place on the bench.