So, as we all wait with bated breath for the match tonight its worth considering the main areas where the game could be won and lost. The first, and probably main, issue for United is the probable lack of an established central defensive pairing. It seems likely that Carrick will continue his role at the heart of the defence with Jones as injuries and/or a lack of match fitness to Evans, Smalling and Ferdinand are set to keep them out. Fortunately, Aguero has also lost his battle for fitness and will be missing for City. However, Negredo is a competent striker and it will be a hard task to manage his contribution, although I expect Jones to do the dirty work and Carrick to mop up. Then we have the daunting prospect of an on-form Ya Ya Toure, together with Nasri, the two make a formidable pairing in City’s midfield. Add to that the work rate of both attacking full-backs and United’s midfield has a heavy workload just to provide midfield defensive action. Then we have City’s defence and the return of their linchpin and Captain Vincent Kompany. There is no doubt they are much better with him than without. So, how can United win? Well, firstly we have to attack. It will be futile to play a patient game and allow City to come on to us. There attacking prowess is quality. Therefore, we need to attack and attack with pace and accuracy. I have gone on record regarding my dislike of Valencia but if he can motivate himself and recover some self-confidence then he could provide a wide outlet for a midfield pairing that seeks fluidity through the channels and width. I would also play Januzaj on the left. He will attract fouls and hopefully stimulate a booking or two or even a sending off. To say nothing of his attacking skill. Then, I’d have Mata and Kagawa in the middle. I feel confident that they would link up extremely well and provide the creativity and short pass and move actions that might just undo City’s defence. Fellaini is key though. He will have to emulate the work rate and skill of Toure. He will need to provide cover for United’s inexperienced central defence, provide the break-up play that Toure does so well, and support Mata, Kagawa and the two wingers. Finally Rooney. I expect him to be a lone striker who will occasionally drop to leave space for Mata or Kagawa to run in to. But he will need to be on his game and take the limited chances if and when they occur. His work rate is not in doubt. All in all, it will be a very difficult game and the team, format and pattern selection above is of course mine and not Moyes. We’ll have to wait and see whom he chooses and how he chooses to play, but there is one thing for sure, taking a double beating from City after being shafted by Liverpool will not go down well. Dear Mr Moyes......ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK!!! As ever, the Red Ranter welcomes your views and comments.
Posted on: Tue, 25 Mar 2014 13:23:57 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015