Wayne Rooney & John Terry
Manchester United v Chelsea – Saturday 18th September – Old Trafford (17:00)
Manchester United have been in unrivalled form so far in the Premier League but face their toughest test yet against Chelsea this Sunday. The Blues haven’t been close to the form their title rivals have shown but have stayed unbeaten so far. This is probably the biggest match in the Premier League season and there is a lot to play for including a place at the top of the table.
Manchester United outclassed Bolton to go top of the Premier League with an astounding 5-0 win at the Reebok Stadium. Wayne Rooney scored another hatrick while Javier Hernandez scored twice as United continued their 100% record start to the Premier League. The only set back during the game for United was Tom Cleverley leaving the field after a heavy challenge from Kevin Davies. The young midfielder has been key for United so far this season and his presence will be missed. His midfield partner, Anderson, will look to carry on the excellent work from the engine room. Anderson has finally fulfilled his potential this season and was one of United’s busiest men against Bolton pushing the ball exquisitely. What United lack in experience they make up in energy with young players like Anderson, Ashley Young, Javier Hernandez, Nani and Phil Evans always coming out the superior during a match. United have scored 11 goals in their 2 home matches while conceding only 2.
Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory at Sunderland in their 4th match of the campaign. They are just 2 points off the champions after winning 3 matches in a row after their opening day draw against 4th placed Stoke. The talented Daniel Sturridge finally earned a deserved start for Chelsea while the underperforming Fernando Torres had to watch from the sidelines as Sturridge scored the winner with a classy back heel finish. New man Raul Meireles made an impressive debut constantly providing supply from the midfield. Chelsea will be hoping to be boosted by the return of Didier Drogba, who, if fit should partner Sturridge or Anelka who scored Chelsea’s first goal against Sunderland. Chelsea’s new signing Juan Mata has spent little time settling in at Stamford Bridge. The Spanish winger could prove key as the inexperience of Manchester United’s make shift right back Chris Smalling will be tested.
Previous matches between these two sides have been very close however United have managed two straight wins at Old Trafford against Chelsea in the last 2 seasons. Don’t expect another 8-2 thrashing from United but the champions and log leaders are firm favourites for a 5th consecutive win.
