Connect with us

Match Preview

The Wenger Bus is coming

The Gunners travel to Manchester with memories of last years embarrassment in the back of their mind, last seasons match at Old Trafford was one to forget for Arsene Wenger whose team was outplayed at the Theatre of Dreams.

The result, 8-2 in United’s favour, was a shocker for both sets of fans. United fans were the happier of the pair after a convincing win over a highly rated opposition. The fixture was played early in the season which capped a promising start to Uniteds 2011/12 season. After winning their 19th league title the season before, confidence was in Uniteds favour.

United were expected to win the game but not by such a margin. In Wengers defence, he was without Thomas Vermaelen and Bacary Sagna to add to various previous injury and suspension problems, so Carl Jenkinson played at right-back and Johan Djourou in the centre with Francis Coquelin making his debut in the centre of midfield.

The match was a barely believable stream of United chances in an amazingly dominant display. Arsenal were wretched from start to finish, completely unable to make the most of their numerical midfield advantage and remarkably disorganised at the back.

Now back to this season…..

United have shown inconsistent form so far this season and prepare to take on an Arsenal side in similar form. Many Arsenal fans thought that, without their no.10 and captain V.Persie, their Arsenal side would struggle this season but so far The Gunners have proved otherwise. Santi Cazorla and winger/forward Lukas Podolski have been on top form for the Gunners and proved to be decent summer signings.

Then theres United…..

United’s attackers have been particularly impressive so far this season having scored the most goals. But this won’t come as a surprise with forwards like Van Persie, Rooney, Hernandez and Welbeck in the squad, the only real let down has been the defence who have been good but not yet on top form with injuries taking its toll on the team. For me, I think Rafael has been in top form while Buttner, who’s been rotating with Evra, also looks promising, but last nights fixture against Chelsea wasn’t Jack’s (Jamie Redknapp) Buttners best game.

United impressed at times this season with wins at Anfield, Stamford Bridge and Sports Direct Arena (St James’ Park) which have broken some unwanted recent records. Although losses at home to Spurs and away at Everton have been disappointing, they were good performances from the Reds on the whole. These have been the only two losses for United so far in the Premier league this season and we don’t wish to add Arsenal to that list come Saturday.

I think the game could go either way but United will just edge it….. I’m not talking about an 8-2…. Maybe a 3-2 United, with United taking a 2-0 lead, Arsenal equalising and hopefully a late goal from Hernandez to seal the deal.

Come on You Reds…..

@TheRedFirm (or personal @WillBarratt97 – I’m new to RedRants, would appreciate some tips, thanks Reds.)