What was once billed as a obvious title decider this game doesn't quite have that feel about it, with many United fans predicting a comfortable win against Arsenal. Coming off the back of a good victory against Spurs, United's confidence will be sky high. Fergie fielded the second youngest side to ever play in the premier league last Monday. The youngest was Man United's when they played against Hull City in 2009 after the league title was already secured, i think this underlines how exciting this squad is and the potential it has.
Its hard trying to second guess Fergie's lineup. I thought he would have started with Carrick last game instead chose to stick with the emerging midfield partnership of Anderson & Cleverley. I have no reason to believe either of these two will be rested after their performance against Spurs. Carrick may come in to replace Welbeck matching Arsenal like for like with 3 in the middle, this has proved successful in recent games against the Gunners. Chicharito is also in contention to partner Rooney upfront after returning from his recent injury. Personally, after Welbecks second half display I would stick with him, he seemed to gain some extra belief after his goal giving him the confidence to brilliantly tee up Anderson for our second goal. Evans and Jones should both continue at the back, after looking very solid against Spurs. The way they dominated Defoe and Van Der Vaart has given fans reason to question Rio's automatic inclusion in the starting 11, also giving a big boost for the future defensive partnership.
THE OPPOSITION
Its been a very tough start to the season for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal, they have lost two key players in club captain Fabregas and arguably their best player last year Nasri. It's not been a great time on the pitch either drawing their first game to Newcastle then losing at home to rivals Liverpool, whilst picking up a lot of injures and suspensions. Frimpong, Koscielney, Wilshere and Gervinho are all missing. However they will be buoyant after picking up a big win it Italy to secure their champions league place, this will give a much needed boost to their confidence.
The last few years United have had the upper hand in this fixture;
P10 W8 D1 L1 F15 A3
With Arsenal's last victory coming in the 2006/07 season courtesy of a single Adebayor goal. Ferguson has used physical tactics against Arsenal in the past not giving them much time or space on the ball. This has proved to be somewhat key in beating Arsenal.
THE DANGER MEN!!
Robin Van Persie
The Dutch striker finished last season in devastating fashion scoring in 9 consecutive away games a premier League record. He scored 18 goals in 25 games and was rewarded with the club captaincy in the summer.
Theo Walcott
The speedy winger has often been criticised for his final ball but with 7 assists and 9 goals to his name last year he is a real threat for Arsenal.
Andrei Arshavin
The skilful Russian is a constant threat with his pace and trickery. He has the ability to change a game in a instant. Last season he scored 6 goals with 11 assists.
VERDICT!
Even though the game is early in the season both teams will be looking for the victory. It's a early chance for both managers to assess their rivals and gain a early lead in the title race. Arsenal will be looking to exploit Evra down the left he seems to struggle against pace, Lennon highlighting this on Monday. Smalling will have a tough task against the skilful Arshavin who likes to drift inside. United will be looking to get at the young and inexperienced Arsenal defence with Rooney pulling them everywhere and Welbecks link up play this could be a long afternoon for the Arsenal. I think United will win this game 2-1 fancy Rooney to get the goals he has looked sharp so far this season scoring in both games.
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