United take on a Villa Under Construction

United take on a young Villa side that was involved in a midweek game in complete contrast to the borefest that was the Manchester derby. Albrighton, Bannan and Clark, aged 20, 20 and 21 respectively, started in midfield in the 3-2 win against Blackpool. The inexperienced midfield trio is set to start against United as well; Sidwell, Petrov and Reo-Coker being still out injured. Villa have two in-form wingers in Young and Downing. The latter has scored 5 goals in 14 appearances this season and will be hoping to get the better of Evra. Agbonlahor has signed a new long term deal with Villa and will be eager to show the Villa faithful that he is worth that fat contract. (Or, will be visiting the most exotic locations in the world, if he thinks like Wayne Rooney.)

Rafael is doubtful for the game and Brown is expected to take his spot. Evra might make it into the 11 if he recovers in time from his injury, but if he doesn’t, I would like to see Fabio start instead of O’Shea (wishful thinking, I know). Carrick was outstanding against City and will partner Fletcher in central midfield. Park has played 5 games on the trot, so Obertan might start along side Nani on the wings. But, we all know Park has a dozen Duracell batteries on his back, so don’t be surprised if he plays another 90 minutes today. I would like to see Fergie go with both Berba and Chicho; fielding 5 in midfield will be showing way too much respect for Villa.

Expected Line-Ups

Villa (4-3-3): Friedel, L.Young, Dunne, Collins, Warnock, Albrighton, Clark, Bannan, Downing, Agbonlahor, A.Young

United (4-4-2): Vandy, Brown, Rio, Vida, O’Shea, Nani, Fletcher, Carrick, Obertan, Berba, Chicho

Form Guide

Villa: LDLDDW

United: DDWWWD

Players to Watch

Villa: A.Young

United: Nani

Prediction: United to boss the midfield and win 2 nil