Opposition scouting report: Manchester United vs Sunderland
Manchester United vs Sunderland is this weekend’s big fixture and both teams will be eager to secure 3 points after the last meeting between the two sides in August ended 1-1.
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Let’s then turn our attention to the opposition.
Form
Last 5: WDLLD
Last Game: Sunderland 0-0 West Bromwich Albion
Sunderland are on a bad run, and find themselves dangerously close to the relegation zone. They currently occupy 16th place with 25 points. Their form has been poor all season, notably the 8-0 decimation at the hands of Southampton in October. This has left the Black Cats with a total goal difference of -14. This means their defence will have more than enough to do against Manchester United; with all the attacking threat that Di Maria and company can bring. Louis van Gaal will be tempted to start Juan Mata alongside Herrera to exploit the defensive liabilities, or opt for the Di Maria and Januzaj combination on the wings and Fellaini through the middle.
The Manager
Gus Poyet is the man in the dugout and is under pressure to keep Sunderland up. He has been at odds with supporters recently but after writing an open letter to plead for unity, he is hoping that they give him and the team their full support. He beat United last season, also securing a victory over Chelsea and a draw with Manchester City.
The Injury Room
Notable abentees from the trip to Old Trafford include midfielder Jack Rodwell and defender Billy Jones. Forward Emanuele Giaccherini, is definitely ruled out, who is likely out for the season with a knee problem.
Ones to Watch
Jermain Defoe
The England man is back in the Premier League after moving to MLS side Toronto FC in January 2014. 11 months later, via a two game cameo for Tottenham on loan he is back and seen as the man who can save Sunderland’s season. He is therefore going to be the man who the defence will have their eyes on the most. A proven goalscorer, he is by far the most dangerous player Sunderland have and can never be underestimated. He has scored twice in three league appearances since signing and has plenty more coming.
In order to contain him, it will be important for the defence to keep tight and on their toes. He is a fast player so Valencia is an ideal candidate, although their is the possibility of Rafael being restored to the starting 11 after returning from injury. David De Gea will also need to be on top form.
Ricky Alvarez
The on-loan midfielder from Inter Milan is not the archetypical Sunderland player and is another one who is expected to step up in the battle against relegation. Although he has struggled for both form and game time, he is a player with considerable quality and begun to show signs of his ability in their last few games. Therefore, if he is given a start against United he will look to utilise his quick feet to frustrate the United defence. How frustrated they get depends on how much of the true Alvarez is seen on the day.
The formidable presence of Fellaini in the midfield will negate the threat posed by Alvarez and the Belgian would be accustomed to what will be a physical game. Alvarez is not the only loanee hoping to impress in the game. Radamel Falcao is looking to make the most of the injury to Robin van Persie and showcase himself in a bid to stay at Old Trafford in the long term.
John O’Shea
Legend. One of few players who can say they have played in every position; having stepped in to play as a goalkeeper upon an injury to Edwin van der Sar and no substitutions left. The Irishman made almost 400 appearances in all competitions and won 15 major trophies during his time at Old Trafford. Now the captain of Sunderland, he will lead the defensive line who face the tricky task of containing United’s attacking forces. He is joined in defensive duties by another former red, Wes Brown. Fearless and experienced, he is an often overlooked but vital player for club and country.
The Sunderland defence is leaky so Rooney will see it as a prime opportunity to grab some belated goals. The same applies to Falcao so from the forwards point of view it will be a good game in order to add to their seasons tally.
We’ll leave with this famous image:
The definition of utility player.
Credit: Soccerblog