The loss to Leicester City earlier in the season seemed like the lowest point of Manchester United’s season. That was before meeting Cambridge in the FA Cup – dreadful display, expensive flops, clueless Van Gaal… We heard it all during the week. Now the Red Devils are meeting are playing against the Foxes with a chance of a revenge.
Saturday’s game at Old Trafford will be an ideal chance for Van Gaal’s team to finally break the streak of lethargic performances that occurred after the win against Liverpool. Good win this Saturday, can be used as a marker for better future performances.
Leicester City on the other hand are on the high after beating Tottenham for the FA Cup with a last-gasp winner. They also picked up 7 points from their last 4 PL games, however still bottom of the league. Being there puts them in a position where every point is valuable and every game becomes like a cup final. But do not expect Nigel Pearson’s men to get behind the ball in their own penalty area, parking the bus. Away to Liverpool and Chelsea they showed glimpses of free-flowing football that can definitely do harm against United’s shaky defence. However the Foxes have also shown lacks of concentration and ability to defend themselves.
By all means it seems we are in for an entertaining game.
Injury News:
Ashley Young (hamstring) is out until mid-February. Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling are subject to late fitness test.
Liam Moore and Chris Wood (foot injuries) and Kasper Schmeichel (metatarsal fracture) are out until mid-February. Dean Hammond and Matthew Upson are subject to late fitness tests.Former United youth Matty James is suspended.
Predicted Line-ups:
Manchester United (4-4-2): DDG-Valencia-Rojo-Jones-Blind-Carrick-Herrera-Di Maria-Mata-Rooney-RVP
Leicester City (4-2-3-1): Schwarzer-Simpson-Morgan-Wasilewski-De Laet- King-Cambiasso-Vardy-Kramaric-Schlupp-Ulloa
One to watch:
Leonardo Ulloa has certainly been the most impressive player for Leicester this season. 7 goals in 20 goals for a relegation threatened team is not too bad at all. Strong, prolific and hard worker, Ulloa has been the most expensive signing in Foxes’ history before the arrival of Andrei Kramaric. The latter rejected Chelsea and Mourinho to join the Midlands club. On his full debut against Tottenham, he certainly gave the impression that he could play a major role in Foxes survival campaign. With his direct running and flair, complemented by the presence of Ulloa, Foxes duo could seriously trouble United’s shaky defence.
Last Meeting: Leicester City – Manchester United 5:3
The last time the two sides met was 21th September when goals from Di Maria, Van Persie and Herrera were hindered by horrific back four performance. Nugent, Vardy, Ulloa and Cambiasso gave Leicester City pretty surprising win.
Last corresponding fixture was on 13th April 2004, when a goal by Gary Neville gave us a 1:0 lead. A rare reason for smile during that awful season.
Score Prediction: Manchester United – Leicester City 3:1
Expect a reaction from United’s squad and manager. Van Gaal is a born winner and he has proven record of responding after a weak game. Changed United line up, should ultimately prevail.
Don’t forget to leave your score prediction in the comment box below.
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