Here is how Manchester United and Chelsea will line up for this afternoon’s match:
Manchester United starting XI: De Gea, Rafael, Smalling, Rojo, Shaw, Blind, Fellaini, Januzaj, Mata, Di Maria, van Persie
Manchester United subs: Lindegaard, Blackett, Fletcher, Carrick, Herrera, Pereira, Wilson
Chelsea starting XI: Courtois, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Luis, Matic, Fabregas, Willian, Oscar, Hazard, Drogba
Chelsea subs: Cech, Zouma, Ake, Mikel, Baker, Salah, Schurrle
Manchester United welcome Chelsea to Old Trafford in a tantalising encounter this weekend.
Louis van Gaal has turned the Theatre of Dreams back into something reminiscent of its former glory – although United’s away-form leaves room for improvement – but Chelsea will head north knowing they have a great record against today’s opponents.
Chelsea are without Diego Costa, Loic Remy and Cesar Azpilicueta while United have to do without the suspended Wayne Rooney and the injured Radamel Falcao.
Both managers will know how important a win is this afternoon and if United can inflict Chelsea’s first defeat of the season it will secure far more than just bragging rights.
Whatever he says outwardly, van Gaal will be targeting the league title, and while that may be an unlikely ambition in his first season, victory over the runaway leaders will be a huge statement of intent.
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