Manchester United will go into this game against Swansea City eager to put the derby heartache behind them. Although he has publicly conceded that City are now “in the driving seat”, Sir Alex Ferguson is way too experienced not to know that even if City emerge from the weekend with the three points, it will still be crucial for his side to get the victory ensuring the heat remains on for the last day of the campaign.
Expect to see an entirely different United to the one that attempted to stifle City in the derby. Even if Ferguson doesn’t alternate his personnel drastically we are sure to see an attacking United more akin to the one that looked irresistible at times against Everton. Wayne Rooney missed a partner against City and with Danny Welbeck injured, Javier Hernandez is set to start. Antonio Valencia is also likely to return to the side as Sir Alex looks to go on the offensive, with the Ecuadorian expected to provide attacking edge from the right flank.
Swansea head to the Theatre of Dreams as one of few sides in the league with little to play for at this stage. Although with the majority or Brendan Rodgers’ squad having come up from the Championship last term, the trip to Old Trafford will be a much anticipated one for the players.
The Swans too, are unbeaten in their last three outings, but Angel Rangel was sorely missed as they leaked four goals against bottom side Wolves. The Spaniard pulled a hamstring at home but is now back in training ahead of the trip to Manchester. Should he play, Rodgers can go into the game with his preferred back four and no other major injury concerns.
Ferguson surely could not have wished for a more suitable opponent given his side’s current situation.
Swansea have been excellent all season but United should emerge as comfortable winners in front of their own fans. Also with goal difference on everyone’s mind, don’t anticipate the champions to take their foot off the pedal if they get themselves in front.
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