Author: Doron

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Three games, six goals scored, no goals conceded. Importantly, three games out of three won. That’s how the record stands since the defeat inflicted on United by City. It’s been the perfect response, despite some rather uncomfortable viewing. Steve Bruce brings his merry group of ex-Reds to Old Trafford – quite fitting seeing as it’s Fergie’s 25th anniversary weekend. Surely Brucey & Co. wont ruin the party…

The opposition:

It took Sunderland until their sixth game of the season to notch their first win at home to Stoke. Bruce’s men have found it hard going this year with poor performances leading to poor results. They have scored in every game since the 27th of August though and despite being 14th in the league they have a positive goal difference.

Bruce was backed in the summer window by former chairman Niall Quinn as he brought in nine new faces. It has to be said that whilst Fergie bleats on about ‘no value’, Bruce was able to get Westwood, Vaughan and Larsson all on frees whilst his most expensive signing was hot prospect, Conor Wickham for £8m. Meanwhile, Bruce decided to let Jordan Henderson leave for £16m which so far looks like good business by Sunderland.

Controversy hit Sunderland hard at the start of the season when star striker Asamoah Gyan decided he didn’t want to be at Sunderland and a loan to Al Ain in the UAE was hastily arranged. Hardly the ideal start to a new season.

Still, Sunderland’s four fixtures after the trip to Old Trafford are all winnable and just as the team are starting to play some better football things appear a bit more comfortable on the North-East coast. Despite the pressure Bruce is under from fans and the media, the club are behind him and no doubt Sunderland will again be looking for a mid-table finish this year. Truth is, if they get lucky with injuries they could even be forgiven for thinking they should finish a little higher than that.

Form:

Following United’s draws at Stoke and Liverpool then loss against City they’re only 6th in the form rankings with 11 points taken from the last possible 18. At home though no other team has scored more goals than United (17 in 5 games) and they’ve been comfortable in all their games with the exception of the period after Evans’ red card against City. The gap between United and City remains five points – City are at QPR this weekend.

Wayne Rooney is the league’s 2nd top scorer with 9 goals – Seb Larsson is Sunderland’s top league goalscorer with just three. Injured Ashley Young has 5 assists, the most for a United player in the league; surprisingly Nicklas Bendtner has Sunderland’s joint most assists with three, the same as Stephane Sessegnon and Larsson.

Sunderland are 14th and in their five away games they’ve W1 D2 L2, scoring 5 and conceding 5. They did win their last away game though, a good 2-0 result at Bolton which provided their first clean sheet in over a month. They come into this game having scored a late equaliser at home against Villa in a 2-2 draw; United were 1-0 winners at Everton last weekend.

Team news:

United’s team news is a bit unclear given the timing of the press conference this week. Owen, Young, Giggs (although he’s back in training), Smalling and Cleverley are definitely all out whilst Rafael and Gibson have been training this week. Carrick started training again but the game may come too soon for him whilst Anderson is a doubt. Vidic should return to the starting line up though having missed the midweek Champions League game through suspension.

Westwood will definitely start in goal after Mignolet joined Gordon in the physio’s room. Angleri is a long-term absentee and there’ll be no Old Trafford return for the injured O’Shea. Vaughan and Larsson both are doubts but may still play the game. Titus Bramble is currently suspended by the club whilst he’s investigated for an off-field offence.

United formation and starting XI prediction:

There will be a couple of big decisions for Fergie to make with his selection for this game. As for the formation, at home a variation of a 4-4-2 should be the set up. I think it’ll be similar to Everton last weekend with Welbeck starting on the left but playing up high in attack with Park covering the left hand area in defence and Rooney dropping deep to help out (hence the arrows on the image above).

De Gea played midweek and despite Ferguson’s desire to give Lindegaard minutes too, David should start this game as well. At the back there are some key decisions to make. Rio was fine but largely untroubled midweek and Evra was rested following some erratic form and the death of one of his brothers. Jones is likely to continue at right back unless Rafael is ready to start a game following his injury. I’d like to see the Rio-Vidic pairing as soon as possible but Evans has been playing well (despite his red card) and he is in favour right now. He and Vidic were solid last weekend and that partnership should continue. Evra’s not been ruled out by Fergie so presuming personal issues don’t keep him out of the game I think he’ll start, failing that Fabio did fine midweek and showed some good attacking prowess.

The midfield is anyone’s guess really. Cleverley and Giggs are out whilst Carrick and Anderson have fitness question marks. Presuming neither is fit then I imagine it’ll be Fletcher with one of Jones (if Rafael is fit) or Park or Rooney. I’ve plumped for Park – his discipline and work rate were hugely important last weekend. If Carrick is fit then I’d bring him in for Park and if Anderson is fit he’d be on my bench if he’s lucky. Ashley Young’s not available and Valencia was poor midweek so with Nani back on his favoured right side I think Welbeck may be asked to help out on the left hand side again.

Rooney really is wasted in the CM area so I’d have him back in his free role behind Hernandez – he can get forward and dictate our play whilst also helping out in defence. Any surprises in store? Well I’d like to see Morrison make the bench although that is probably rather unrealistic – he didn’t come off the bench for the Reserves midweek which is maybe a sign he was being saved… it’s easy to read too much into these things but given the injuries and his cameo at Aldershot I’d like to think he’s in the manager’s thoughts despite his recent Twitter troubles (which I think were grossly blown out of proportion).

Key battle:

Park vs. Sessegnon – with so much focus placed on United’s central midfield area it sums up all the problems at the moment by the fact it’s like a non-central midfielder will almost certainly have to line up next to Fletcher.

The challenge that faces that player is quite a bit one. Stéphane Sessègnon (to include his accents) is playing the best football of his rather short Sunderland career so far. He’s been given something of a free role allowing him to roam in off the wings and do some damage in the middle. He’s a powerful quick player with good feet and a clever footballing brain.

It’s quite lucky in many ways then that Park could be the man he comes up against. Few footballers are as intelligent with space as Park and he seems to thrive when playing against someone with great movement. Park and Fletcher, should they line up together will have to make sure they don’t leave pockets of space because Sessegnon will find them. Nullifying him will neutralise one of Sunderland’s key men.

Of course, being at home, one would hope that United can give Sessegnon and Sunderland problems rather than the other way round but it’s worth being aware of the dangers that he poses.

History and last meeting:

This will be the 117th league meeting between the two sides – United have a winning record by some margin. In the Premier League era, 10 previous league meetings have taken place at Old Trafford with United winning eight of them and not losing any. Sunderland have only manage 4 goals in those games, United have racked up 24.

This fixture has thrown up 4 goalless draws and on four occasions Unite have scored five goals. Sunderland have scored three goals at Old Trafford four times – the last of which was 35 years ago. In December 1950 they even scored 5! Sunderland haven’t won at Old Trafford since 1968.

Last year United beat Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford in a dominant performance that could have been a rout. Berbatov got the first and the second was originally credited to the Bulgarian as well before going down as an own goal.

Prediction:

I’d love to think Brucey will come to town and let his side roll over but that won’t happen. Sunderland would love to ruin the 25th anniversary party but I can’t see it happening. United will be keen to get back in amongst the goals and put on a performance for the fans after some really poor displays. I’m going to predict an optimistic 4-0 United win.

Referee:

Lee Mason – his 7th top flight game of the season. He averages just under four yellow cards a game and along with Neil Swarbrick he is the only referee to dish out more yellow cards in the first half than in the second half of games.

Connections:

Where to begin? Steve Bruce is a former United league winning captain and one of the most fearsome centre backs the club have had. No less than five former Reds are in the Sunderland first team squad – Wes Brown, John O’Shea, Phil Bardsley, Kieran Richardson and Fraizer Campbell. McShane, Healy, Simpson, Evans, Keane and Higginbotham, Yorke, Cole and Miller have all been at the club within the last five years too whilst Darron Gibson was rumoured to be close to a move there this summer. Danny Welbeck will be very familiar with the goings on of Sunderland having spent last season on loan there. Finally, until as recently as April, former United coach Ricky Sbragia was also on the club’s staff.

Quick facts:

- Darren Fletcher is one game short of 300 appearances whilst Evans would make his 100th appearance for United if he plays.
- United are one goal short of 200 league goals against Sunderland; Sunderland are two goals short of 200 goals in all competitions against United.
- Conor Wickham’s goal last weekend made him the youngest PL goalscorer so far this season.

They say:

Ferguson on Brown and O’Shea: “They were instrumental in a lot of our successes over the years. They are fantastic professionals. I love both of them in terms of their attitude and loyalty to the club.”

Bruce on the Old Trafford experience: “The message to our lads is to go and enjoy it, take them on and enjoy the challenge of playing against the best. If there is anything about you, to play at Old Trafford is the ultimate.”

Brown on returning to United: “It’ll be good; I’m really looking forward to going back to Old Trafford. Obviously I had only ever previously been at Manchester United so it will be special to go back. I will enjoy the day but I’m going back there to try and win as a Sunderland player so hopefully we can do that. It will be nice to catch up with a few people I’ve not seen for a while before and after the game but during those 90 minutes I’ll be fully focused on hopefully getting a good result for Sunderland.”

Links:

For all pre-match banter, tactical discussions, team and score predictions click here.

If it’s Fergie content you’re after then we have three offerings:
From Wilf to Big Ron: United’s managers in between the two greats
Sir Alex Ferguson – a will to win
Fergie’s last gift may be his most generous

Videos:

AUTHOR: – Doron

Van der Sar, Neville, Hargreaves, and Scholes have all departed; now further money has been taken off the wage bill with the sale of O’Shea and Brown to Sunderland for an undisclosed fee.

O’Shea and Brown leave having made a combined 755 appearances in which they’ve scored a total of 20 goals. It leaves United with something of a hole in terms of back-up in either fullback position. With Phil Jones having already signed for the club, there are no issues in the centre of defence for depth and he can cover in front of the back four too. Smalling has shown he’s an able back-up right back as has Evans in the left back area. However it seems a lot will be riding on Fabio and Rafael being able to stay injury free next year.

Brown departs after 14 seasons in the first team and 362 appearances. He scored 5 goals with one coming this year against Crawley Town in the FA Cup. This was a frustrating season for Wes – 15 appearances of which 10 were starts and he only started 4 league games. He didn’t qualify for a league winners medal and reportedly had a couple of bust-ups with Fergie over the past 12 months. He is a product of United’s academy and is something of a fan favourite – his song is often sung home and away. Brown has been frozen out though due to the rise of the Da Silva twins, Evans and Smalling. His best season was arguably in 2007/08 when United were European and league champions; he played a pivotal role at right back and assisted Ronaldo’s goal in the Champions League final.

O’Shea is another home-grown player and having made 32 appearances this season has taken his total tally to 393. It was only the second season in eight that he’s failed to score but he does have 15 goals to his name for United. His most famous goal came in March 2007 – with United down to 10 men he scored a last minute winner in front of The Kop to send fans and players alike delirious. Two years earlier he scored his best goal, a delicate chip late on at Highbury to seal off a 4-2 win over Arsenal. Maybe his most important goal though was in April 2009 in the first leg of a Champions League semi final against Arsenal – his goal at Old Trafford gave United the lead heading into the second leg. O’Shea has always gotten games due to his versatility – he’s able to play across the back four and in midfield too. He’s even played in goal for United away at Spurs. Rather infamously, he’s considered to be a clumsy player not known for his skill but he did once nutmeg Figo!

Wes told Sunderland’s TV station today:

“It’s been alright [making the decision] maybe because I’m older. It was disappointing not to have played as much as I could at Manchester United over the last couple of seasons so just to know that I’ll be back in, playing, I’m focusing on that really and looking forward to it. Last season, I couldn’t get into the team and that was frustrating but that’s football and you move on. Sunderland is a big club and Steve Bruce was a big factor coming into it. That’s what it came down to really. When I was younger, I used to watch Steve and I’ve known him a bit as well so it was fine. I know a couple of lads who have been here and they say it’s a wonderful club and I thought this was the place for me to come.”

On signing him, Steve Bruce said:

“We are delighted to welcome a player of Wes’ ability, experience and character to the club. He has been a fantastic professional for Manchester United through the years and not only will he strengthen our defensive options, he will also bring with him a winning mentality and level of maturity which can only be positive for the players around him.”

Meanwhile Sir Alex Ferguson had only glowing words for the departing Brown:

“Wes has been a great asset to the club during the most successful period in its history. He was a product of the youth system and marked himself out from an early age as one of his generation’s most natural defenders. In his time with us, he certainly became a favourite with the fans for his no-nonsense approach to the game and his infectious personality. It’s always the hardest of decisions to let loyal servants go. But life moves on and, unquestionably, Wes will get the chance to make a real contribution to Steve Bruce’s Sunderland and I’m delighted to be passing him into such good hands. Everyone connected with United wishes him a long and happy stay at Sunderland.”

Having signed after Wes, O’Shea also spoke to SAFC TV:

“Once I’d heard reports about the club and the people here, the ambitions and what the manager was all about it was the only place I was going to come to. I had to wait a few weeks for the birth of my child, that’s why it seems protracted. It wasn’t really, it was fairly straightforward. Leaving United was one of those things, I was there for 13 fantastic years but this is a new exciting challenge and hopefully we can have good times with Sunderland like I had with Manchester United.”

Bruce was delighted to sign O’Shea:

“John has been a solid, consistent part of Manchester United’s squad for well over a decade which goes to show the fantastic pedigree of player we have signed. He is a wonderful professional both on and off the field and his wealth of experience and versatility will be great attributes for us. I’m delighted with the players we’ve been able to secure ahead of the new season.”

Fergie also had a warm parting message for John:

“John has been an outstanding servant to the club, since he broke into the first team almost a decade ago. His versatility, calmness under pressure and his commitment to the cause at United means that fans will remember him with great affection. John has won so many medals – and has deserved every one of them. He epitomises our club’s approach as a team. After so many years of service to United, I’m pleased that John has found a career opportunity which will deliver the number of games he deserves. We wish John every success in his new life. Steve Bruce is a manager that knows how to blend youth and experience and I’m sure he has John earmarked for a senior role in trying to take Sunderland on from their finish last season.”

The experience that these two players will leave behind is irreplaceable, they’ve been wonderful servants and here are some of their best moments:

O’Shea nutmegs Figo:

O’Shea scores a chip at Highbury::

O’Shea as a goalkeeper:

O’Shea last minute winner at Anfield:

O’Shea scores vs. Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final:

Classic O’Shea skill:

A typical O’Shea shot:

Wes Brown scores vs. Liverpool:

Wes Brown compilation:

He’s big, he’s bad, he’s Wesley Brown:

We wish the best of luck to Wes and John.

AUTHOR: – Doron

The two teams “hardest to beat” in the Premier League went head to head at Old Trafford; Manchester United won with a Dimitar Berbatov brace as an early onslaught never materialised into the goals it threatened, to stay two points clear of Manchester City having played 2 games fewer – and, significantly, 5 and 6 points ahead of Arsenal and Chelsea respectively with the London clubs set to face off against each other tomorrow.

Berbatov’s 5^th minute goal eased any early tension against Steve Bruce’s in form Black Cats – Ryan Giggs played the ball to Wayne Rooney, whose cross to the far post was headed home with a degree of comfort by the Bulgarian. And United could – and maybe should – have had more. Wayne Rooney went close with a chip and Berbatov rattled the post from 10 yards before the 10 minute mark, Anderson hit a rocket against the crossbar, Ryan Giggs forced a save from Craig Gordon and Berbatov fired into the side netting as the mentioned foursome were unplayable.

Anderson and Rooney went close with other chances before the break – a phenomenal 45 minutes should still have included a note of caution, as their visitors recently thrashed Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and were described by Sir Alex himself as United’s most difficult opponents this season. An early warning shot by Gyan in the second half demonstrated Sunderland’s positive response; so a second goal was clearly needed. It duly arrived just before the hour; Anderson’s attempted pass hit a defender but it rebounded straight back to the Brazilian; without a pause, he fizzed it first time to Berbatov, who took the shot on and saw it clip two defenders before beating Gordon in goals.

That was it for Giggs and Anderson; replaced by Darron Gibson and Kiko Macheda on 63 minutes. The pair had been by far the best players on the pitch and their withdrawal spoke volumes about their importance in upcoming weeks; with Anderson virtually undroppable and unplayable, and Giggs’ experience vital in the absence of Valencia, Nani and Park, Sir Alex’s decision to remove them was most definitely one of preservation, especially with Anderson’s recent illness and Giggs still finding his way back from injury.

Sunderland managed to impose themselves more on the game as United sought to save energy, but the result was never threatened. 8 weeks ago the Red Devils were described as a team in decline; but now, with a number of the leagues in-form players and certainly the best football being played by them, there is an air of positivity that looks unlikely to be shaken off anytime soon.

Ratings : van der Sar 7, Rafael 7, Ferdinand 7, Vidic 7, Evra 7, Park 7, Carrick 7, *Anderson 8 (Macheda 6), Giggs 8 (Gibson 6), Rooney 7, Berbatov 8 (Chicharito)

United, top of the league at Christmas, kick off the festive fixture schedule at home to Sunderland on Boxing Day. Sunderland themselves are performing well in the league and sit in 6th place, level on points with Spurs in 5th. We welcome back former captain, Steve Bruce, and his side for what should be a potentially tricky game.

There’s little doubt that few people would have predicted that coming Christmas, Sunderland would be sitting in 6th place. Maybe only the most optimistic of fans would have dreamed this up. Then again, many would predict Sunderland shouldn’t be there based on who should be there – the reality is, Sunderland have spent a lot of money and are always seemingly prepared to spend more…maybe this is less of a surprise than it looks at first.

It’s hard to say exactly how Sunderland play. Their game is as much about power and strength as it is about quick counter attacking football. The infamous 3-0 win at Chelsea was an example of both those elements. It’s fair to say they bullied Chelsea that day but also cut them open with quick, decisive passing and counter attacking. They’re aren’t a team who are too prepared to just sit back, rather, if they will try and play for a draw, they’ll still attempt to push on in a game and have a go. Like every single team in the league though, they lack consistency.

Sunderland’s foundation for success lies in their home form – 9 played, 5 won and 4 drawn…no defeats. Their away form is ok, it’s not great but it’s above average in the league. With one defeat in their last six games – a surprise defeat at Wolves – Sunderland are in fact 5th in the form league. They come to Old Trafford unbeaten in three games – three games in which they’ve also kept three clean sheets. Confidence is high, morale is high and I believe Sunderland will be coming to Old Trafford to cause an upset.

With regards to the Sunderland squad, there are some big problems ahead of this game. Captain Lee Cattermole is suspended, in-form striker Danny Welbeck is ineligible (fortunately) to face his parent club. Mensah, Bramble and Turner are all injured leave the centre back area looking thin. Meyler is a doubt after picking up a knock following his recent return from a long lay off, and former Red, Fraizer Campbell remains a long-term absentee with Reid and Kilgallon. It means that Da Silva will have to be partnered by one of Angeleri, Onuoha or Bardsley – all naturally full backs. I expect that Sunderland may only play one up top, they travel with only Bent and Gyan as recognised strikers whilst any one of Henderson, Malbranque or Zenden will be able to push on and support a lone front man from a midfield 5.

What Sunderland lack in playing personnel at the moment, they have in spirit and belief. United will have to be ever aware of Darren Bent who likes scoring against the Reds, whilst new recruit Asamoah Gyan has been a very impressive buy and will no doubt want to impress on a big stage. Jordan Henderson is of course the one player who most Reds will be closely watching – he has been strongly linked with the a move to United for a few months now and no doubt fans will wish to run the rule over him (and of course put him down should he not excel beyond imagination!).

This starts a tough run for Sunderland, 5 games in three busy weeks, but after this fixture, the next four in the run-up to the derby against Newcastle all look very winnable. Hopefully Steve Bruce will be in the festive spirit and his team will roll over for United (that is a joke before people claim that our ex-players always try to do us a favour!).

Enough on Sunderland…onto United and my predicted line up:

It seems strange that the last game played was way back against Arsenal. By Sunday, United will have nearly had a two week break from football. I think we will witness a return to the 4-4-2 formation for Sunderland.

First up, O’Shea, Scholes, Valencia and Hargreaves are injured whilst Lindegaard cannot be registered yet. Wes Brown is likely to be fit for the squad but he had a minor twinge in his calf midweek and is unlikely to be risked. I’d like to start my predicted team by mentioning Park. This will be his last game before he leaves for the Asian Cup and in recent weeks his form has been excellent. He will be a big loss for the time he is unavailable and I can only hope that Old Trafford gives him the applause he deserves on Sunday.

I’ve picked what I consider to be the strongest team available. Now United are at the top of the table, that’s where they have to remain. With it so tight at the moment, now is not the time for squad rotation. The back 5 pick themselves as do three of the four midfielders. The one who I am not entirely convinced about is Anderson. He had a virus last week and so either Carrick or maybe even Gibson could play if he’s not 100%. Up front Berbatov and Rooney should be reunited. It seems harsh on Chicharito at the moment given he’s done very little wrong since he joined but he can’t seem to get a game anywhere. There could be a return to the team for Michael Owen – he’s not played since injuring himself against Sunderland earlier in the season and now fit and having come through three weeks of intense training he could feature on the bench.

The concern for United is getting the team right baring in mind the next few fixtures. This is the time of year where games come quickly and a run of games coming up against on paper weaker opposition means points cannot be dropped now. Ultimately this run of a game every few days culminates with the FA Cup match against Liverpool. Whilst I’d prioritise the league over the FA Cup, losing to Liverpool any day in any competition is unthinkable.

Recent form shows United sitting top of the form league with three wins in the last three games – however those three games have been spread out over a month and a half. The sparsity of league games played has been down to postponements due to the weather. All is not lost though in this festive time, United are top at Christmas for the first time since 2006 and are still unbeaten in the league – the first time they’ve ever achieved that at this time of the season – there’s much to be happy about.

This fixture doesn’t bare much for Sunderland fans to be happy about. In 9 Premier League visits to Old Trafford they’ve never won (although game within seconds of doing so last year). They’ve limited United to just two draws in those fixtures and have only managed to score four goals. The two draws have come within the last four visits though. A Sunderland win at Old Trafford hasn’t happened for 42 years, a 2-1 win in May 1968 when United’s goal was scored by a certain George Best. Old Trafford has been a frustrating ground in recent years for Sunderland fans – Anton Ferdinand’s 94th-minute own goal earned United a 2-2 draw while in December 2008, Nemanja Vidic also struck in injury time to give the Red Devils a 1-0 win – they’ll hoping for no more late drama this time round.

No club has kept more clean sheets than Sunderland this season, they average one every two games. This has helped them to beat Chelsea away and a solid defence has aided holding both Liverpool and Spurs away. Sunderland can claim to be one of only two teams in the league this season who have kept Manchester United from scoring – the other is Man City. Steve Bruce of course knows a thing or two about good defending but his record against Ferguson reads P15, W0, D4, L11 – not very good.

United’s South Korean, Park has four league goals in his last four Old Trafford league games. Hopefully he can add some more as he says goodbye for a month. This game is not to taken lightly. Sunderland are depleted but they are confident. Sir Alex Ferguson described the trip to The Stadium of Light earlier this season as the hardest away game United have had. A win is paramount and I think United are starting to get into a rhythm of wins now. A good result will help carry momentum into the Birmingham match on Tuesday evening. Sorry Sunderland, but I think injuries and player unavailability will cost them as I prediction a 3-0 win for United.

You can share with us your thoughts and your favourite moments from games at home to Sunderland on our forum.

Two videos I wanted to share ahead of this game, one late late winner from Vidic and a moment of genius that no one will ever forget from The King:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0U2lfMb4zs

www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMEGlmyCal0

Feel free to follow me on Twitter

Danny Welbeck’s future at Manchester United has come into question recently following some stunning performances while on loan at Sunderland. With attacking talent in abundance at Old Trafford, Welbeck was sent on loan this season to gain valuable first team experience at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has now made public his intentions to sign Welbeck on a permanent deal; a move the young striker has refused to rule out.

The England U-21 got off to an indifferent start on loan being used primarily on the wings, but has begun to flourish in recent weeks as striker. Welbeck scored the final goal in Sunderland’s 3-0 victory at Chelsea and then bagged a brace in the 2-2 draw against Everton. His performances have warranted attention and now Bruce is hoping to strike a deal for the promising striker.

Welbeck admits his future is unclear at the moment, refusing to rule out a permanent deal at the Stadium of Light. Should he continue performing at this level his value may rise consequently pricing Sunderland out of a deal.

That’s assuming that United would even be interested in selling. A wind of change may be taking place with United’s attacking talent. Michael Owen’s contract expires at the end of this season and there have been few indications that he will be offered an extension. Speculation has also developed surrounding Dimitar Berbatov’s future. Recent reports suggest he may be on the way to Juventus, but his agent has quickly put that rumour to bed. Assuming Owen leaves, Welbeck may very well take his place in the pecking order. However, Mame Biram Diouf should also be returning at the end of the season from his loan with Blackburn. Simply put, six strikers is too many.

With so much attacking talent on the books it’s difficult to determine which will remain and which will go. Welbeck’s starting to show us that he deserves a place in the squad. Of course, it’s impossible to make a definite conclusion after two matches, but the signs are promising. With the overcrowding of strikers at Old Trafford, there is the chance that Steve Bruce just may get his man. It certainly wouldn’t be the first promising youngster we’ve seen leave the club. However, should Welbeck continue this fine run of performances I think a return to Old Trafford beckons.

Discuss this story and more in the forum

You can follow Kyle on Twitter at KDill_MUFC

Sunderland 0-0 Manchester United

Another away game, another two points dropped. Manchester United were held to a 0-0 score at Sunderland at the Stadium of Light – Sunderland’s form this season means that the result is far from a disgrace, but the manner in which the game played out (with United arguably lucky to escape with even a point) has presented a new headache as further ground is likely to be surrendered at the top to champions Chelsea, even if for now the gap has been closed by the point gained.

Sir Alex Ferguson sprung a few surprises in his line up (as predicted in our preview) with Dimitar Berbatov and Patrice Evra both starting from the bench, and a starting front pair of Michael Owen and Federico Macheda. An unconventional line-up was accompanied by an unconventional precursor to the game when a burst pipe flooded the United dressing room, delaying kick off by 20 minutes. And in fairness, for the first 30 minutes, it barely looked like the visitors had chosen to come out at all as the Black Cats dominated. All chances of any note in the first half came from Sunderland as they looked to take full advantage of an unfamiliar United line up.

An early succession of corners for the hosts failed to produce anything tangible; Jordan Henderson’s speculative 13th minute effort didn’t really trouble van der Sar, but the veteran stopper was called into action when Steed Malbranque – in supreme schemer mode – latched on to Lee Cattermole’s incisive through ball, beat Nemanja Vidic but couldn’t find a way past van der Sar, who smothered the shot well.

Ex-Chelsea and Liverpool winger Zenden hit the post from over 20 yards in the 37h minute, while United’s only effort worth noting was a free kick won well by Anderson and shot wide by Nani in the 39th. On the run of play, United were fortunate for parity. With patchy away form this season, improvement was crucial, though some might say it was inevitable as it couldn’t get any worse for the visitors.

Michael Owen’s only contribution in the first half was inadvertently help clear a United attack when he was well placed to strike on goal; it was no surprise to see him replaced at the break by Berbatov. The Bulgarian re-directed a wayward Scholes shot into the net in the 48th minute but was rightly flagged offside.

The Red Devils did at least make a notable improvement from their first half offering but only to the extent of nullifying the threat of their hosts; that said, Sunderland did have their chances, with a free kick just after the hour being subjected to the pinball treatment around the United box before going well over, and Malbranque and Bent both having chances.

Sir Alex replaced Macheda with Chicharito and gave Bebe his league debut in place of Anderson, but both summer signings failed to make an impression. Nani, as so often this season, was hit and miss. The winger impressed so much at the back end of last season but seems to have let that go to his head already; regardless of his frustratingly inadequate delivery, he was still United’s most potent attacking threat. His 30 yard bolt out of the blue effort was well saved by Mignolet and was the closest United came to a goal; that a speculative attempt such as that was the best opening said everything about the performance.

Berbatov and Chicharito provided each other with chances, but neither tested Mignolet. Sunderland introduced their record signing, Asamoah Gyan, and the unpredictable forward lashed a spectacular overhead kick at goal in the 84th minute, but it was easy for van der Sar.

Thoughts began to turn to this season’s trends; United yet to win or even keep a clean sheet away from home this season, while Sunderland have carved out an impressive record of taking points from the so-called bigger names and often doing so with late goals. Shipping them in the final stages has also been a nasty habit for United, but they managed to keep a clean sheet with relative ease. That was the good news (and the relative comfort with which it was achieved after soaking up that first half pressure); the bad news being the toothless display up front by last seasons runners up. A two point lead for Chelsea at the top is likely to extend to 5 by the end of this weekends fixtures, even if their game against Arsenal is far from a foregone conclusion.

Even if Arsenal do United (and themselves) a favour by grabbing a win there, United’s inability to turn one point into 3 on the road means they will look back with even more frustration at an eight day period which has seen Chelsea throw down an invitation back into the title race, only for United to fluff their lines.

Ratings : van der Sar 7, *Rafael 7, Ferdinand 7, Vidic 7, O’Shea 7, Nani 6, Fletcher 5, Scholes 6, Anderson 6 (Bebe), Owen 5 (Berbatov 6), Macheda 5 (Chicharito 6)

It’ll be a reunion at the Stadium of Light on Saturday when Manchester United take on Sunderland. United legend Steve Bruce is now the manager for The Black Cats, and the former defender has recruited many players from his old employers. Former players such as Kieran Richardson, Phil Bardsley, and Fraizer Campbell are now on the books at the Stadium of Light, although Campbell has been ruled out due to injury. Also, current United youngster Danny Welbeck is on loan with Brucie’s side, but will be ineligible to compete against his parent club.

United have struggled with away form this season, although they’ve seemingly gotten back on track with a crucial victory against Valencia in Spain. The fixture at the Stadium of Light will provide United an opportunity to prove they’ve left their struggles away from home in the past.

Sunderland have gotten off to a decent start to the season and currently occupy 11th place in the Premier League. Though only in a mid-table position, a win against Manchester City and draw against Liverpool prove that Sunderland are a capable adversary. With United’s current record away from home in the Premier League, a trip to Sunderland could present a serious problem.

You can’t discuss Sunderland without mentioning Darren Bent. The England striker managed to amass 24 goals last campaign despite his club’s relatively poor season, and this season he’s already scored five in six matches. The back four will have to forget the recent defensive struggles and play with confidence if United are to leave with three points.

Speaking of the defense, I’m assuming Edwin van der Sar will keep his job between the posts for the match this weekend. Assuming both are fit, I would expect Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic to continue rebuilding their partnership in the heart of the defense. I’m going with a somewhat bold prediction and saying the twins will occupy the full back positions. Rafael demonstrated why he deserves to be the first-choice right back with his performance against Valencia in the mid-week, and should rewarded with another start by Sir Alex. It’s not often that Patrice Evra is not involved, but he’s suffered a slight dip in form and the gaffer may choose to rest him with Fabio deputizing at left back. There is some concern fielding a slightly inexperienced back four when the opposing strike force includes Darren Bent, but I’m sure this defense would be more than capable of keeping a clean sheet while also contributing to attack.

The midfield becomes more and more difficult to predict with each passing day. First-choice midfielders Antonio Valencia and Paul Scholes are both sidelined, and the depth in midfield has also taken a blow with Ryan Giggs and Owen Hargreaves also ruled out. I would guess that Nani and Park Ji-Sung would occupy the wings since they’re really the only two wingers we have available presently. Darren Fletcher seems like a certainty in midfield, while Anderson’s performance against Valencia should earn him another chance in the starting XI. I also wouldn’t rule out Bebe making an substitute appearance at some point. United’s newest signing traveled with the squad to Spain this week, and though he did not make the final team it seems Sir Alex is starting to put some faith in him. With the current lack of depth for wingers, Bebe may get his first taste of Premier League action.

Finally, we have the forwards. Wayne Rooney is out for the next 2-3 weeks, although Steve Bruce says he wouldn’t be shocked if the England striker was selected. I’m trusting Sir Alex and assuming that Rooney will play no part against Sunderland. The other four strikers are in good form right now, which makes selecting two a challenge. Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen have both been scoring goals this season, while Federico Macheda and Chicharito linked up beautifully for the winner against Valencia. At this point I think Berbatov has become somewhat undroppable, so I predict he’ll be involved from the start. As a reward for his goal on Wednesday, I think the Bulgarian will be partnered by Chicharito. Though, should we be in need of goals as time runs out, Owen and Macheda are both fantastic threats coming off the bench.

With Chelsea and Arsenal facing each other on Sunday, there is a good chance the current league leaders could drop points. If this is the case, United need to take advantage of that opportunity. Securing all three points against Sunderland would heap the pressure on Chelsea for Arsenal’s visit to Stamford Bridge. It’s still early days in the Premier League, but United cannot afford to fall any further behind the defending champions. While maybe not the biggest of fixtures, a win at the Stadium of Light would be a huge boost to United’s title chances.

I think United will be more than capable of getting the result against Sunderland, even in the absence of Rooney and Scholes. His goal against Valencia may have opened the floodgates for Chicharito, so expect to see a goal from the young Mexican. Nani has improved his game drastically in the past 12 months and has already bagged two goals this season, and I look for him to add to that tally on Saturday. I think there will be a third and final goal for United coming from Anderson. The Brazilian has only scored one competitive goal in his time at Old Trafford, so it may be a long shot, but he seemed to be getting into more advanced roles against Valencia. If he continues to do so I believe he’ll get himself a goal this weekend. At the opposite end of the field, I anticipate United will earn themselves a second consecutive clean sheet.

Prediction: Sunderland 0, United 3

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As one attacking talent joins the club, another leaves on loan. The club confirmed today that Danny Welbeck has joined Sunderland on a season-long loan. It was reported that Welbeck was at the Stadium of Light for a medical today and now the deal has been confirmed. He becomes the second striker to leave the club on loan this season, following Mame Biram Diouf’s move to Blackburn.

I was originally concerned about this move with Darren Bent, Kenwyne Jones, and former-Red Devil Frazier Campbell on the books at the Stadium of Light, but with Kenwyne Jones leaving for Stoke City this suddenly seems like an excellent move. Should be plenty of chances for him to get experiences with the hole left by Jones.

With five strikers currently playing for Manchester United (there is some debate if Bebe is a striker or not), it is probably for the best that he is going to a club where he’ll get more experience. Also, it will be good for him to be in a squad with his former teammate Campbell.

At this stage of his career, it is crucial that he gets minutes on the pitch at the highest level. With so much competition among strikers at Old Trafford, this could prove to be his big shot. Should he impress on loan, it may be just what he needs to break into the squad. If not, it may signal the end of his time with United. Sir Alex loaning him out to a Premier League clubs is a great indication of the faith he has the young striker, hopefully he proves it’s justified.

Discuss all Welbeck’s loan in the forum.

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Nani’s expertly hit drive just before the half hour kept alive Manchester United’s slim hopes of retaining the Premier League. Sunderland at the Stadium of Light were formidable opponents with one of the best home records in the league, but United were able to overcome a physical battle on the pitch and the psychological blow of the most unprofessional of surrenders up the M62 to push the most unpredictable top of the table merry go round in modern memory right the way to the last game.

Sir Alex Ferguson fielded a 4-4-2 with Antonio Valencia absent – Wayne Rooney was deemed fit but Rio Ferdinand had to settle for a place on the bench as the team who had won three titles in a row had to rouse themselves after Liverpool predictably raised the white flag to Chelsea earlier in the day.

That scoreline led to a pretty subdued opening to the game, both in atmosphere and performance. Gradually, though, both improved – the travelling faithful, though severely restricted in number, definitely made their presence felt in volume after the Red Devils had a couple of opportunities in the 4th minute. Dimitar Berbatov was selected alongside Rooney and the Bulgarian played in his strike partner. Rooney’s shot was parried by Craig Gordon and Ryan Giggs’ attempt on the rebound was quickly blocked by ex-United defender Phil Bardsley.

Sunderland’s response and approach was spirited but lacking in conviction – a free kick after quarter of an hour was headed over by Cana, before midway through the first half Patrice Evra surged from defence to feed Giggs. Giggs’ movement inside was good and his shot beat Gordon all ends up but not the frame of the goal, as the angle denied him. Steed Malbranque then responded with a 20 yarder of his own and this was on target for the home team, but Edwin van der Sar made a marvellous save at full stretch. Four minutes later, Ferguson’s men got the breakthrough, and unlike their title rivals, it took a moment of real magic to achieve it rather than have it handed to them. Rooney and Giggs have had wonderful seasons, Rooney for his goal tally and Giggs for his truckload of assists, and both were involved in most that was good about United’s impressive movement at times. They combined with Berbatov and Fletcher, with the Scot laying the ball off short. Nani was on hand to lash the ball home, a goal that was impressive on first viewing but even more so on the replay.

The first half from then on was comfortable – it wasn’t until injury time that either goal was really threatened again. First Giggs and Rooney combined well to play in Evra, whose shot was saved comfortably by Gordon, and then Nani did well to find Rooney before being flattened by substitute Lee Cattermole. Steve Bennett played advantage, Rooney rolled the ball to Berbatov but his finish was symbolic of his recent form, wide and not so handsome.

United proceeded to miss a whole host of chances in the second half – with Berbatov the main culprit, but not the first. Fletcher’s clever backheel created some space for Nani, who ran through but seemed in two minds whether to shoot or cross and paid for that indecision as Gordon dealt with it.

Berbatov then strode into an unwanted spotlight – Rooney and Giggs again combining to create two gilt edged chances for United’s record signing within the space of 5 minutes. First Giggs did well and played in Rooney – Berbatov connected with the ball with the goal at his mercy and somehow put it over when it seemed easier to keep it down. Then, Rooney showed impressive strength in his hold up play in the area to create space for Giggs, and the Welsh veteran’s cross was headed onto the back of a defender and over by Berbatov – this chance slightly less wasteful but still, he should have done better.

There could be no questioning Sunderland’s aggressive commitment to the cause with Malbranque and Cattermole at their tenacious best – Ferguson, with perhaps the result and taking Berbatov out of his misery in mind, brought off the forward for Michael Carrick. It was a decision that almost paid instant dividends – the new shape freed Fletcher, he made a move central and tried an effort from 25 yards. That was blocked, but screwed to Rooney who half volleyed with stinging power narrowly wide.

It was Michael Carrick who had the best chance of extending the lead after this point. There were 13 minutes left when Rooney was played through, but saw his chance snuffed out by the onrushing Gordon. The Scottish keeper couldn’t do enough to smother the ball and it squirmed wide to Nani – with the stopper out of his goal, Nani cleverly played it across to Carrick but the ex-Spurs midfielder’s shot was not particularly strong and was cleared off the line.

Sunderland’s closest effort of an equaliser came in the 82nd minute. Steed Malbranque had just performed a studs up challenge on Jonny Evans, but was only booked, and his cross for former Red Frazier Campbell was met by an acrobatic effort that went wide.

Fergie’s thoughts were turning to consolidation and Rio Ferdinand came on in defensive midfield, with the manager probably mindful of the particularly hard tackling of the Black Cats. Owen Hargreaves did make a long awaited return to first team action with seconds remaining, his only touch being United’s last of the game.

United’s result may after all is said and done seem pretty insignificant after Chelsea had cantered to victory, literally gift wrapped, at Anfield. The nature of that result – which included the only time Steven Gerrard will assist a goal that (probably) decides the title – illustrated the shambles of Liverpool Football Club which once stood for something. Had their opponents been Manchester United today you could guarantee a transformed performance and even a different team selection, but Rafael Benitez confirmed fears he would approach the game with all the lack of integrity and professionalism he has shown throughout his spell in England.

The damage to United will be a temporary though admittedly significant setback but the repercussions for Liverpool are likely to be far more severe – it was always on the cards that a huge upheaval in the managerial area would be taking place over the summer but their tummy-tickling surrender of any hope of 4th place could spark a dark period of turmoil for our once proud rivals – this year marks their 20th season without the league trophy and their refusal to take the league with any respect has guaranteed they won’t be playing Champions League football. Few would bet, in those conditions, that Anfield will be housing a league championship winning team in the next decade at least. It would be just reward for their blatant lack of professionalism and also one in the eye for Liverpool supporting Mike Dean whose own contribution to the title race has been inherently corrupt.

For now, though, Manchester United are still in the hunt to be Premier League Champions for the fourth time in succession. They may still be depending on other teams to do them a favour but it’s a sorry state of affairs when football fans across the country can honestly say Wigan Athletic will put up a more convincing effort than Liverpool.

Beyond that, and taking a closer examination of the players in this match, Berbatov cut a forlorn figure as confidence had completely deserted him. A confident or at least clinical striker would have bagged a hat-trick with the chances presented to him. The forward has often been referred to kindly as languid and harshly as a poor excuse for Cantona, but in recent weeks it has been that fundamental lack of ruthlessness that, for example, a van Nistelrooy would bring. The short term solution would suggest the smart money all being chucked on a Karim Benzema shaped replacement while Federico Macheda learns his trade. Unfortunately for Berbatov, Macheda’s inexperience does not dissuade the vast majority of fans wanting to see the young Italian in the here and now. The sympathy is clear because Berbatov so clearly wants to succeed and United fans are by and large as patient as it gets – just as Diego Forlan. The problem for Bulgaria’s record goalgetter is that he has been afforded the patience yet does himself no favours by going missing when the chips are down – that’s the kind of attitude that is welcomed on Merseyside but will find short shrift at Old Trafford.

Ratings : van der Sar 7, O’Shea 6, Evans 7, Vidic 7, Evra 7, Nani 7 (Hargreaves), Scholes 8, Fletcher 7 (Ferdinand), *Giggs 8, Berbatov 5 (Carrick 5), Rooney 8

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Abysmal, lacklustre but very very lucky – Manchester United salvaged an injury time draw against a Sunderland side that had completely dominated and outplayed them at Old Trafford.

A selection that excluded the injured Michael Owen and the rested Ryan Giggs was always likely to be struggling to find a plan B – no strikers on the bench, and an odd midfield that featured Welbeck out wide meant that it was plan A or bust for the Premier League Champions. On the first half evidence it was truly “bust”, as Sunderland’s energetic midfield thoroughly outran their opponents. The early exchanges were dominated by the visitors and on 7 minutes they were rewarded with a 20 yard strike from in-form Darren Bent.

The Black Cats sat back for a while, expecting a response that simply was not forthcoming from either the players or the subdued Old Trafford spectators. After an initial tentative period Sunderland began to realise that United did not have an answer and began to play with a freedom and cleverness rarely seen by visitors to this venue and rarely afforded by the hosts.

Without a shot of note in that first period the only chance United fashioned was a penalty appeal – the ball did appear to be handled quite clearly by Andy Reid and although the decision itself may have been clear a leveller would have been totally against the run of play.

The famed “Fergie hairdryer” would surely have been rampaging at half time and it seemed to have little impact – the Red Devils were hardly rampaging themselves. Anderson had been introduced for Paul Scholes after the United legend had picked up a booking, but it was hardly a surprise. When Nani’s inconsistent delivery is the actual highlight of a midfield you know United needed something extra.

An equaliser did arrive when O’Shea’s cross was sensationally, and acrobatically, volleyed in by Berbatov. Anonymous before, the Bulgarian suddenly began to look lively and sprightly.

Unfortunately for United Sunderland were not about to lay down and settle, and scored just 6 minutes later when Andy Reid chipped a ball into the box that seemed bread and butter for the United keeper Ben Foster. However Nemanja Vidic was found wanting in his marking of Kenwyne Jones and Foster was found wanting in his attempt to collect. Jones converted to restore the lead for Sunderland and Ben Foster was left to contemplate whether this was one mistake too many. There is no doubting his ability but whether he can actually cut it on the very top level now seems very doubtful.

This is a question being asked of some of United’s younger outfield players and with no Giggs, Owen or even Macheda to turn to it was Antonio Valencia and the in-form Michael Carrick that came on for Welbeck and Fletcher. That Welbeck was favoured to start over Valencia wasn’t exactly encouraging but neither was the Ecuadorian’s display when he came on, though having said that Fergie’s last throw of the dice didn’t exactly seem to encourage the rest of the side.

Despite always staying brave with keeping 2 strikers on Sunderland appeared to try and protect their win with around ten minutes left and even this didn’t spark United into life. The Black Cats almost got a deserved third to kill the game when youngster Henderson absolutely destroyed Evra for pace and saw his excellent ball diverted away in the nick of time by Carrick with Jones loitering with intent. However with 5 minutes remaining former United player Keiran Richardson was given a second yellow for kicking the ball away and the change in shape finally shook a response from the home team.

The visiting staff and supporters waited with baited breath to see the consequences the time wasting of their keeper and Richardson’s crawl off the pitch had contributed to the added time – 4 minutes seemed a fair amount. In the third of those minutes fate struck a cruel blow for Sunderland as Evra’s hopeful swing of the boot seemed to send the ball wide until Anton Ferdinand stuck out a leg and diverted into the bottom corner to make it 2-2.

United, buoyed by this, then poured forward and bizarrely almost won the game with a flurry of corners. However it came to no avail and it was just a completely undeserved point rather than a criminal snatching of the whole three that United had stolen from the game. With Chelsea and Liverpool due to face off against each other this was a valuable chance to put some daylight between themselves and the chasing pack.

The only positive to take from the game was the resilience of the side though it’s hard to class this as a good thing when United didn’t even turn up for 85 minutes. Sir Alex may have publicly lamented the fitness of referee Alan Wiley and what he felt were two good penalty claims but privately he must consider his own decision to completely rest an in-form Giggs that the team seem to be reliant on.

Ratings : Foster 5, O’Shea 6, Evans 6, Vidic 5, Evra 6, Nani 6, Scholes 5 (Anderson 6), Fletcher 5 (Carrick), Welbeck 5 (Valencia), Rooney 6, *Berbatov 6.

Source: (Yolkie)