Team News
Blues could welcome back Alexander Hleb although he is only likely to be fit enough for the bench.
For United Nani should return but Ji Sung Park has left to take part in the Asia cup.
Last Meeting
Our last meeting took place in similar weather in January and ended in a 1-1 draw with Cameron Jerome scoring for Blues.
Recent Form
It’s difficult to say what sort of form Blues are in as they have not played for two weeks but in their last six they have only registered one win. That was against Chelsea though.
Man United have won their last four games and are unbeaten all season. However away from home six of their seven games have ended in draws.
Outlook
Well I hope you all had a good Christmas and as a late present Blues look like they are actually going to be able to play a game. It’s been frustrating waiting for the next fixture especially as our last one was the dire result against Wolves. Since then West Ham and Wigan have picked up points and we now sit precariously just above the relegation zone. Unfortunately our plight will most likely not be improved by the visit of the league leaders and the form team of the Premiership.
On a positive side the visit of the big clubs does seem to bring out the best in Blues and suits our “Play for a draw and hope to get lucky” mentality we have adopted this season. I expect us to pack the midfield and try to make things as difficult as possible. Liam Ridgewell will probably return and he will be kept busy by Nani so expect Keith Fahey to start on the left again to act as defensive cover. Just don’t expect him to cross the halfway line. The other big threat will be the in form Berbatov although it’s worth noting that all but one of his thirteen goals this season have been scored at home.
As this is a no pressure game where we are not expected to win we can just enjoy it and hope to maybe snatch a point. Just getting away without too much damage to our goal difference will be something. Post Christmas games are always fun and there should be a good crowd in. It’s also looking likely that it won’t be that cold (I now consider any temperature in positive figures to be warm) so let’s put on our hats, gloves and scarves we got for Christmas and give that lot from Manchester a good game.
My Prediction an optimistic 1-1.
C’mon you Blue Boys.
Another oppertunity to watch 90 minutes pass Keith Fahey by! Another oppertunity watch us defend, defend & defend and hope for a lucky break