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Man Utd v Stoke - KO 8pm (Streams/FTA only)
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31-01-2012 8:57am#1
Form guide
Recent wins at Manchester City and Arsenal were undoubtedly big results for Sir Alex’s men, but the bigger picture reveals the Reds have actually lost three of the last six fixtures. As such, Stoke come into this game boasting better form, with Tony Pulis’ men having tasted defeat just once in all competitions since Christmas. Still, that’s unlikely to fill Stoke fans with too much confidence. After all, Stoke have never beaten United in the Premier League era, home or away, and have scored just once on their last seven visits to Old Trafford.
Ins and outs
Anderson and Ashley Young are due back in full training this week but this game will probably come too soon for both players. There’s no suggestion Wayne Rooney, Nani or Phil Jones will make it, either, after all three missed United’s defeat at Anfield on Saturday. Rio Ferdinand watched that game from the substitutes’ bench, which suggests he’s close to a return. But while United could almost name an injured XI (we’ve not even mentioned long-term absentees Nemanja Vidic, Michael Owen, Darren Fletcher or Tom Cleverley), Stoke City are sweating only on the fitness of Matthew Etherington, who limped off against Derby County at the weekend with a groin problem.
Last meeting
September’s league game at the Britannia finished 1-1 after Peter Crouch’s second-half header cancelled out Nani’s 27th-minute opener. The game was also notable for an early injury to Javier Hernandez, which forced the Mexican from the pitch inside 10 minutes, and a strong performance from Reds goalkeeper David De Gea, who stood up impeccably to Stoke’s aerial bombardment and made two or three top-class saves.
Opposition boss
Tony Pulis doesn’t seek attention or controversy, although that’s not to say he hasn’t made an impact at the Britannia. This is his second spell at Stoke, a tenure that began with winning promotion to the top flight in 2006/07. Five years later, the Potters are now a mid-table fixture in the Premier League and, like United, will compete in the Europa League’s Round of 32 next month. For all his success, Pulis has his fair share of detractors. He’s assembled a team of big, strong players and encouraged them to play to their physical strengths, an approach that isn't always easy on the eye. Few can argue it's not been effective, though.
Star man
Stoke’s biggest threat – in more ways than one; he’s 6ft 7in – is undoubtedly Peter Crouch. He thrives on Stoke’s direct approach and can be a real handful for defenders. And while he’s obviously good in the air, Crouch can also make things happen with the ball at his feet. Under-estimate him at your peril.
Quote/unquote
“United may have injury problems, but they’ve got incredible strength in depth. That’s why they’re the current champions and I’m sure that whatever side Sir Alex sends out it will still be one full of outstanding quality.” – Tony Pulis
Sub-plots
All eyes will be on Sir Alex’s team selection on Tuesday night, with a specific interest in his choice of goalkeeper. David De Gea was terrific against Stoke back in September, but Anders Lindegaard has seen considerably more action in recent weeks and has looked a consistently safe option.
Referee
Mike Jones has taken charge of the Reds three times already this season: at home against Newcastle United and away at West Bromwich Albion and Leeds (Carling Cup). It was the Magpies’ visit to Old Trafford that will stick in the memory of United fans, as Jones, after consulting his assistant, pointed to the spot to award Newcastle a penalty when Rio Ferdinand had clearly won the ball. Even Newcastle boss Alan Pardew agreed it was contentious. “If it was against me I would have been very aggrieved.”
Rivals watch
While United and Stoke lock horns at Old Trafford, Manchester City and Everton will do battle at Goodison Park. Sir Alex’s men currently lie three points behind City.
Predicted Line Up.De Gea
Rafael Smalling Evans Evra
Valencia Carrick Giggs Park
Berbatov Hernandez
Might see the likes of Pogba starting considering our injuries, but unlikely.2
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Pogba to start. Wouldn't this be his first ever start for United in the league?
Yes, you n00b.MagicMarker wrote: »Amos, Smalling, Rio, Evans, Evra, Val, Carrick, Scholes, Park, Hernandez, Berbatov
As expected really, can't believe Scholes is starting after the weekend.
Daycent team. Think we'll struggle and win 1-0 with a few scares. Thank god it's 8 o clock kick off, don't have to miss EastEnders
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