D.C. United versus New York City FC lineup: 3 points to playoffs

D.C. United takes on New York City FC this Sunday, with a chance to punch their ticket for the MLS Cup playoffs. A win by United, and they are in; a loss by the Montreal Impact, kicking off at the same time against Toronto FC, also means that United would be in. But clinching at home, by winning the last regular season home game of the year, would be the very most satisfying.

Ben Olsen should have close to his full complement of players from which to choose. With Wayne Rooney as the striker the obvious choice, and Yamil Asad, Luciano Acosta, and Russell Canouse also gaurenteed to start, the rest of the pieces must fall around that.

The fact that Nick DeLeon is healthy and starting is good, and I think he gets the start again at right back (even if Ben Olsen hadn't wanted him to play the full 90 on Wednesday). That will allow Paul Arriola, returning from the tragic loss of his father, to play his regular right wing position. If DeLeon can't go the full 90, I expect Arriola to slide back and for Ulises Segura to step into the right midfield.

Defensive midfield is a big question, now that Junior Moreno is back. I expect Moreno to get the start, but Chris Durkin played very well in his absence. Both deserve to get the call on Sunday, but I think Olsen will go with the veteran. Bill Hamid picked up a knock on Wednesday, but Olsen said he should be fine for this game.

What do you want to see D.C. United do on Sunday?