Pravir Singh
European nights are always special and United will be looking to get their second win on the trot as they take on CSKA in Moscow. United last visited Moscow 6 years to the day, edging out CSKA 1-0 with Valencia scoring the only goal. Moscow holds fond memories for Manchester Untied as it was the city where they won their third Champions League title in 2008. Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney are the only two players who remain from the team that beat Chelsea on penalties. United will look to continue after their brilliant performance at the weekend. A complete team performance led by Ander Herrera and Chris Smalling saw United win 3-0 at Goodison Park.
Phil Jones started for the first time this season and will look to keep his place for tonight. A major plus for United were the performances of Marcos Rojo and Wayne Rooney. Rojo had looked rusty when he was called on to replace Luke Shaw earlier on in the season until an injury versus Southampton had him sidelined. However, a good performance against Everton where he even provided the assist for Herrera’s goal will give him some confidence. Wayne Rooney’s form has been a big concern for United this season. A much improved display saw him scoring his first goal at his former home ground since 2007.
These are some of the key battles that could decide the game:
Chris Smalling vs Seydou Doumbia
Chris Smalling has had a sensational start to the season so far and he continued that at the weekend. Dealing with Romelu Lukaku is not an easy task but Smalling did just that winning majority of his aerial duels in the process. Doumbia has been in fine goalscoring form scoring 7 in his last 7 appearances. Not only that, he scored two goals in CSKA’s 3-2 victory over PSV Eindhoven during last Champions League Gameweek. The Ivorian provides an added physical threat and Smalling will have his work cut-out for him in what has the makings of a very intriguing battle.
Anthony Martial vs Mario Fernandes
With Herrera flourishing in that number 10 position and Rooney finding a bit of form playing up front, Martial will probably continue on the left hand side. He has been in tremendous form this season and possesses that creative spark. Although he had a quieter game vs Everton, he did get the better of Coleman on a few occasions and he’ll be looking to do the same against Fernandes. Mario Fernandes has had a decent season so far and he will look to nullify any threat that the Frenchman poses.
Ander Herrera vs Pontus Wernbloom
With Memphis was dropped to the bench, Rooney got the chance to play further up which allowed Herrera to play as the number 10. He was brilliant versus Everton at the weekend. His movement was very good and he headed in United’s second of the game before assisting Rooney for the third. He also has a great understanding with Juan Mata who should start for United on the right. Wernbloom will probably play just ahead of the defence looking to ensure Herrera isn’t allowed any time or space when on the ball. He likes going in hard which often leads him to commit many fouls.
