Chelsea vs. Manchester United: Previewing the Blues and Reds vital EPL clash

Ryan Giggs of Manchester United beats Juan Mata of Chelsea

In a fixture that could have a considerable influence on who fans see lift the Premier League title this season, Manchester United travel to face Chelsea on Sunday after both clubs were put through their paces during the midweek Champions League fixtures.
This weekend’s hosts will be looking to bounce back from an unsuccessful journey to Ukraine where they succumbed to a resurgent Shakhtar Donetsk while the Red Devils undoubtedly finished the happier of the pair after coming from 2-0 down to see of Braga 3-2.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side adopted an unfamiliar 4-3-3 formation against the Portuguese opposition, a formation that was swiftly swept under the rug for a more frequently used 4-4-2 tactic. With Shinji Kagawa injured for the trip to west London, it’s more than likely that United will utilise the wings once again and Nani could come back into the starting line-up after impressing against Braga.

Two men looking probable to come back into the frame are Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand, both of whom were rested for the midweek tie. Chris Smalling resumed full training during the week and will also be vying to make his long-awaited return.
Chelsea don’t have quite as many absences but one figure that will be sorely missed is Frank Lampard. The England midfielder limped off the field during Tuesday’s game against Shakhtar and looks likely to miss the next two weeks with a calf problem. That leaves Roberto Di Matteo with the likes of John Obi Mikel, Ramires or Oscar to take his place in the middle of the park should the Italian opt to carry on using the 4-3-3 formation that has yielded such fine results thus far.
John Terry continues his suspension, leaving either David Luiz, Gary Cahill or Branislav Ivanovic to take his place in the heart of the home defence.
Positioned first and second in the league, respectively, Chelsea and Manchester United are just four points apart after eight games. While the visiting side can’t leapfrog their way into top spot even with a win, they can apply some much-needed pressure on the league leaders with three points in hand.
It’s been over 10 years since United last earned a league win at Stamford Bridge and this encounter promises to be a corker, with the Premier League’s best defence playing host to its best attacking side.
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