Chelsea Vs Manchester United: Five Things To Expect

 

It is going to be an explosive start to the week as Chelsea and Manchester United clash in the English Premier League (EPL) on Monday night.

The star match at Stamford Bridge is crucial for both footballer-turned-managers, Frank Lampard and Ole Gunner Solskjaer, with both men chasing Champions League football.

Allnews.ng brings you five things to expect from the encounter:

Ighalo To Feature

January signing, Odion Ighalo, is expected to make his debut for the Red Devils on Monday night.

The on-loan Nigerian, who didn’t travel to Spain for the club’s warm-weather training should start from the bench as he only met his colleagues for the first time at Carrington during the weekend.

Martial To Start

With in-form Marcus Rashford out of action due to a back injury, Anthony Martial, scorer in the reverse tie at Old Trafford, is fancied to lead the attack for the erstwhile league champions.

Fernandes To Shine

January acquisition, Bruno Fernandes, was hugely impressive on his debut versus Wolverhampton Wanderers, dictating and bossing the middle of the park. However, he will not have it easy with Chelsea's Ngolo Kante. Verdict – He will carry on Monday night!

Battle Of Spanish No 1

For some time now, the duo of David De Gea and Kepa Arizabalaga have been turning out unconvincing performances in goal. Bar the game against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at the Etihad, De Gea has been average this term. Same with Chelsea goalie, Kepa, who was dropped by Coach Lampard in the away draw with Leicester City.

Both shot-stoppers now have a chance to prove their mettle under the floodlights in London. The national team coach, Luis Enrique, will no doubt be watching.

Game To End In A Draw

Two unreliable and inconsistent sides are coming head-to-head, and considering how un-spectacular United had beaten Chelsea twice already this season, it would be safe to predict a share of the spoils tonight. 8th-placed United need the victory more, but with Blues knowing that the likes of Arsenal, Spurs and Sheffield United are on their heels, they won’t give in easily.