The midfielder was excellent in United’s 3-2 win in the Community Shield. Could he repeat the performance?
Last August seems like a long time ago now. Steve Bruce was still Sunderland manager, Joey Barton was a Newcastle player, and few outside Wolves had even heard of Terry Connor.
Even so, Sir Alex Ferguson could do worse than look back eight months to remember the stirring comeback they produced when trailing 2-0 at half-time in the Community Shield.
Tom Cleverley was the inspiration in the second half, and it is possible he could have a similar role to play next Monday.
It would be a surprise to see him start, with Ferguson more likely to go with Scholes and Carrick in the middle of the park, complemented by Giggs or even Phil Jones.
But if United need a little attacking inspiration and zip, Cleverley has proved he is the man who can provide it, but whether he will is another matter.
Would it be too much inference to take what happened last August as a sign for next Monday’s match?
They are reasons why Cleverley may struggle to have the same impact.
Mainly that he has missed large chunks of the season with an ankle injury that stalled his fantastic start.
Even since returning in February, he has struggled for form, and been afforded few chances thanks to Paul Scholes’ unlikely yet incredibly effective comeback.
He played 45 minutes in United’ 1-0 defeat to Wigan a fortnight ago, and struggled to make an impact, but it would be harsh to single him out for a performance where United as a whole team failed to turn up.
But next Monday the whole United squad, like City, will be well up for the challenge laid out in front of them. There will be no risk of complacency, with each man giving their all.
What Cleverley does offer is quick passing, energy going forward, and he creates chances which a defensive minded player like Phil Jones simply cannot provide as effectively.
City will also be wary of him, and just his presence could throw them off course for a moment if he is brought on, and even the slightest edge could be significant in the game which could decide the title.
Cleverley will offer United a different option, and while it may be a gamble to start him, it will be no gamble to bring him on if United are chasing the game.
Should Cleverley play a role next week?
image: © eschipul
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