Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney returns for the Red Devils' clash against Manchester City at the weekend and it�s very likely that he will walk straight back into the starting XI.
The 29 year-old was given the captain's armband by Louis Van Gaal at the beginning of the season and with his comments stating the captain has �privileges�, Rooney is expected to partner Robin van Persie in attack.
In 2012/2013, the pair enjoyed a successful season together and they helped United land their 20th league title. Sir Alex Ferguson then retired and despite a frustrating last 12 months, Van Gaal is trying to get the pair back firing with Colombian Radamel Falcao also alongside them.
Rooney�s return was never in question with the Manchester derby one of the biggest games on the calendar. But should he just walk back into the side when United just drew 1-1 with Chelsea?
His three-match ban picked up against West Ham United has only just ended due to the international break, but since then United have gone three games unbeaten. They�ve defeated Everton 2-1 while drawing with West Bromwich Albion 2-2 prior to Sunday�s draw with Chelsea.
Goals have been scored but the side are still conceding which is a worry, with City possessing the threat of Sergio Aguero and David Silva.
Rooney�s last two games saw him play Leicester City and West Ham and during both games he looked threatening with his goals and assists helping United to five goals.
His all-round performance of tracking back and helping the defence is admired around Old Trafford and that will be the difference come Sunday, should he start.
Van Gaal has a decision to make, with Juan Mata also enjoying some game time in the number 10 role. The Spaniard has failed to prove himself with his performances leaving the Dutchman with no other alternative than to sub him midway through the second half but he could still start against City.
The former Chelsea midfielder signed for �37 million in January, but is still yet to shine under the lights at Old Trafford. His goals have all come against opposition in the bottom half of the table and that�s not enough for someone of his quality.
Rooney, 29, is proven in big games and his never say die attitude is what United need on Sunday as they aim to overturn back-to-back defeats against the Citizens.
With United likely to play 4-3-3, Marouane Fellaini will keep his place meaning United could line up like this on Sunday.
Mata is the man expected to be dropped and nobody will complain. Rooney is needed for his attacking impetus but also for his defensive work which will be essential on a big pitch.
The stats suggest Mata offers more in attack than the England captain. The Spaniard�s link-up play and pass success rate is better than Rooney�s but he doesn�t affect the game enough. Rooney has only managed a pass success rate of 84% this season but judging by his 10 years in the Premier League, the 29 year-old has never based his game on possession.
No comments:
Post a Comment