History
The Manchester Derby! One of the biggest matches on the Premier League calendar. City haven’t managed to win at Old Trafford since the incarnation of the Premier League but came away with a well deserved point last season, thanks to Joey Barton’s late equaliser. In recent years, City have had the edge over their fiercest rivals but United’s quality should never be under estimated.
Injuries
City
D Mills – Stress Fracture of the Shin – Will be out until the New Year.
S Jihai – Hamstring – Long-term injury.
United
O Solskjaer – Hamstring – Doubtful.
P Ji-Sung – Torn Ligaments – Unlikely to be risked.
Team News
Stuart Pearce looks likely to stick with the same side that claimed a point against Watford on Monday night. If a change were to be made, it is likely to see Georgios Samaras drop to the bench, with Darius Vassell taking his place alongside Bernado Corradi, and the inclusion of either DaMarcus Beasley or Trevor Sinclair on the left hand side. Dietmar Hamann and Ousmane Dabo are both pushing for a recall in midfield, but Claudio Reyna looks set to continue alongside Joey Barton.
Last Match
City – 0-0 Watford. A game played in poor conditions against a team who worked their socks off for 90 minutes, Monday proved to be another case of ‘after the lord mayors show’, following the win at Aston Villa. City were out battled and out muscled, despite having a lot more quality in their ranks. A disappointment.
United – 2-1 at Middlesbrough. A comfortable display from the Red’s saw Boro brushed aside. United overpowered their opponents with an excellent display of passing. A questionable penalty also helped their cause.
Premiership Form
Last 5 games
City – Draw, Won, Loss, Won Draw – 8 points from 15.
United – Won, Won, Draw, Won, Won – 13 points from 15.
Opposition Star Man
Cristiano Ronaldo – World-class winger with dazzling skills who can win matches on his own. He’s been in excellent form this season and is the man the Blues will have to keep a watchful eye on. Always a threat in and around the box as he has a tendency to go over a leg rather easily.
Prediction
There’s no question that United possess the most quality within their ranks. They are on top of the Premier League and have been in imperious form all season. But derby day is a whole different ball game. These are the games where average players can step up to give the performance of a lifetime. Tactically, Stuart Pearce will also have to be at the top of his game. City will come out all guns blazing no doubt and must outwork their opponents, especially in midfield, if they are to get something out of the game. Sadly though, I’m finding it hard to see anything but a home win. Hope I’m wrong!
United 2 City 0
Thanks to Grob for this preview.
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