Adam Dennehey WAFU manager
I thought it would be good at the start of each month to give my predictions on the games that Manchester United will have. Here’s how I can see our games in January panning out.
Before that though, here’s a quick look at how I got on last month with my predictions, as you’re see there I got no score spot-on only predicting 4/7 results right.
So who do United play this month, let’s have a look:
4th January – Premier League: Newcastle United @ St James’ Park
United begin the month with a tricky fixture away at Newcastle. Starting the year well is a must for Sir Alex Ferguson and he will be expecting his side to start grinding out results and clicking fully into gear at the top of the table.
Alan Pardew has done a terrific job so far this season and he will be confident of his side picking up their first home league win over United since 2001. This match will be played at a frenetic pace which may help United to a 2-1 victory.
8th January – FA Cup: Manchester City @ Ethiad Stadium
FA Cup third round matches are not usually meant to throw up a clash that in all senses and purposes has the prestige and history that would be befitting of a final. This clash between the two Manchester giants is one and it’s both clubs toughest game of the month.
This tie could potentially swing the season fully into the winner’s way and defeat really isn’t an option for either side. Based on that, I can see the game being drawn 1-1 setting up a tense replay at Old Trafford which will be a clash for the ages that no-one will want to miss.
14th January – Premier League: Bolton @ Old Trafford
Owen Coyle’s Bolton have arguably been the disappointment of the season. Yes they have suffered with a few long-term injuries but few fans would have expected them to slump this season and b involved in a relegation scrap-fight.
This is a game that they will not be expected to win and it’s one that United cannot afford to drop any points in. Sir Alex will not be wanting another ‘Blackburn’ and will select a side strong enough to win by at least two goals, well that’s the theory anyway.
22nd January – Premier League: Arsenal @ The Emirates
Who can forget the last time United faced Arsenal in the league? After all 8-2 is not a score-line that you see too often in professional football. Arsene Wenger’s side will be out for revenge wanting to make up for that embarrassing defeat.
This will be an entertaining game with both sides looking to pass the ball about from the off. Wojciech Szczesny and Robin van Persie I fear will frustrate United who may run into one of those days in London where they end up losing 1-0.
31st January – Premier League: Stoke City @ Old Trafford
United may well have surrendered their 100% record in the Premier League against Stoke this season at the Britannia, but Tony Pulis will be under no illusions that his side face a daunting task in this season’s reverse fixture.
Nani scored the winner in this bout last season and whilst the Portuguese winger is running hot and cold recently, he should enjoy himself on the final day of the month in a routine 3-0 home win. Expect Wayne Rooney to score two.
By Adam Dennehey @ADennehey87
