Man United looking to complete the Double over Chelsea but expect Tough Test
Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted a much tighter game than the free-flowing attacking football at Old Trafford earlier in the season when United were 3-1 winners. Chelsea created plenty of chances that day, notably a nightmare miss for Torres that would have pulled the Blues back to 3-2. Chelsea’s title challenge wilted a long time ago but they are under pressure from Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle for fourth spot and a win would be a timely boost ahead of their return to action in the Champions League.
Manchester City’s defeat at Everton in midweek enabled United to draw level on points at the top of the Premiership table and they will be looking to keep the pressure on their rivals with at least a point from this game. David De Gea is expected to return in goal and the return of Rooney and Nani will boost United’s attacking options. De Gea came in for heavy criticism for his performance against Liverpool during their FA Cup exit recently where he was arguably at fault with both goals. His confidence may be fragile and Chelsea will be looking to put him under pressure early on.
Chelsea have a fine recent record against United at Stamford Bridge having not lost to them since 2002. However, they have been beaten three times at home already this season and their recent league form is patchy. With Drogba playing in the African Nations Cup, Torres has been given a good run of games but has now gone past 1,000 minutes since he last scored. Villas-Boas has supported Torres through his troubles, praising his overall contribution to the team in recent games. Now would be a good time for the Spaniard to repay the faith shown in him since his record £50million transfer just over a year ago.
Chelsea will be without their skipper John Terry due to a knee injury. Villas-Boas selected Luiz and Ivanovic for the trip to Swansea and they performed well. He may keep the same combination rather than introduce new signing Gary Cahill in such an important game. Frank Lampard could return from his calf injury and has a habit of scoring on the big occasions. Ramires is out with a knee injury and Cole through suspension.
