My 2nd Leg Starting Lineup

Sir Alex Ferguson is known as many things, but predictable is not one of them. Week in and week out he changes his bench and starting eleven more than any other manager in the premier league. His refusal to routinely employ the same starting eleven is due to a combination of things; injuries, form, unpredictability, and squad depth. Although this may not be seen as a vintage United side, the quality of depth at each position is staggering. Given his coy nature it is near impossible to correctly pick what his lineup will be for a certain match, but here are my thoughts on what he will do for the second leg against Spanish juggernauts Real Madrid.

 

GK: At this point David De Gea has made himself an automatic selection. He has always shown loads of ability, but his play over the past 2 months has been spectacular. If he plays at the same level as he did in the first leg United will be tough to beat.

DEF: Given their performances this season and lack of a real challenge at their positions, Rafael and Evra locked up the outside back positions. Centre-back is slightly more difficult as the competition for spots is much closer. Given the fact that Nemanja Vidic played against Norwich it is unlikely he will be ready to face Madrid. Rio Ferdinand has been a rock at the back this year and has paired well with Johnny Evans in the past.

MID: For me (and SAF) Michael Carrick has made himself the first name on the teamsheet every week. His work often goes unnoticed by some, but he has continued to elevate his play this campaign and is one of the most consistent players in the Premier League. Ideally, Phil Jones would be paired with Carrick as he was in the first leg, but injury concerns have left him doubtful to participate in the encounter. I have a nagging suspicion that he will, but likely in a reserve role. That leaves young Tom Cleverley as the next best option. He is full of running and bright enough going forward to do a job in a game of this magnitude. Out wide Nani has earned himself the starting role with his recent string of brilliance. Opposite him should be Danny Welbeck who was excellent in the first meeting. His energy and pace gave Madrid problems throughout.

FWD: Technically, Wayne Rooney will be in a CAM position but for the purposes of this piece he will be considered a forward. His work-rate is contagious and will be called upon in this match. With Madrid's lethal counter-attack Rooney will find himself playing a lot of defence yet again. Naturally Robin Van Persie will be the focal piece up top and the main goal threat. He showed in Madrid that his hold up play and ability to track back and receive the ball is another strong part of his game. If United sit back and defend look for the Dutchman to play deeper than normal.

Prediction - In a tight encounter that sees both teams score I think that... you will have to check back Monday to see the prediction.