With both teams fielding makeshift lineups, it’s hard to say who will be taking on who on the pitch, but it’s likely that the game will be decided by these individual battles.
SEE MORE:
Ten Premier League Players You May Have Forgotten Existed
World’s Ten Most Wanted Players In 2004 – Where Are They Now
Jose Mourinho Claims Chelsea Could Lose Unbeaten Record
5) Louis Van Gaal v Arsene Wenger
With both sides suffering from serious injury problems, the two managers will have an even greater impact on the game than usual. Their decisions on who should fill in where are of vital importance; and they must use their substitutions carefully, given that they will both be playing several half-fit players who may need to come off without much warning.
4) Tyler Blackett v Theo Walcott
Walcott is unlikely to start, but Wenger will almost certainly bring him on later in the game as United start to tire. If Luke Shaw isn’t fit then United may use Tyler Blackett at left-back, and the out-of-position youngster will be seriously vulnerab;e to Walcott’s pace and directness down Arsenal’s right.
3) Marouane Fellaini v Mikel Arteta
Blind and Carrick’s injuries have all but guaranteed Fellaini a run in the team, and he must make the most of it. Arteta plays the ball around nicely but is easily dominated physically, and Fellaini must make the most of his size to get on top of the Spaniard in the battle for midfield control.
2) Danny Welbeck v Paddy McNair
Welbeck will be desperate to prove Van Gaal wrong for letting him go, and he has the perfect opportunity this evening. Paddy McNair looks like a great prospect, but he’s inexperienced and Welbeck can force a mistake out of him if he keeps him under pressure. If he can get the young Northern Irishman booked early on, he could be set for a very enjoyable evening.
1) Alexis Sanchez v Antonio Valencia
It’ll be an all South American affair on one flank if Louis Van Gaal opts to play Valencia at right-back. The Ecuadorian is not a natural there, but his pace and determination make him a capable stand in. He will have his work cut out against the formidable Sanchez however, who can make the difference for Arsenal if he’s given the ball regularly in the right positions.