The matches against Everton in the 13/14 season, optimized the David Moyes era at Manchester United. A 1-0 home defeat, followed by a 2-0 embarrassment at Goodison Park was one of many reasons why ‘The Chosen One’ lost his job. It is now time for Louis van Gaal’s men to take on the Merseyside team, and it’s his biggest test to date.
Just as United seem to be back on track (after a 2-1 victory at home to West Ham) Wayne Rooney's suspension, and Ander Herrera's fractured ribs, means that the 13 time Premier League champions are without a fully fit team yet again. After Juan Mata was dropped for captain Rooney against West Ham, it seems likely he'll return to play behind the star studded pairing of Falcao and Robin van Persie. However, young starlet Adnan Januzaj (who recently took over the legendary no11 shirt) may also be considered for the "No.10" position on Sunday. After a magnificent goal for the U21's against Spurs, the decision to select him ahead of Mata may not be such a surprise. The injury to Herrera again highlights how frail the United central midfield position actually is, but the introduction of Darren Fletcher (who is also vice-captain) shouldn't disrupt things too much.
Everton sit 17th in the table, with only a single win, three draws and two losses. A major contributing factor to this, is the fact they've conceded fourteen goals in six games (six of which in the 3-6 defeat against Chelsea). However, coming off the back of a 1-1 draw with arch rivals Liverpool, the Toffees may feel this could be the turning point in their season. United's inexperienced back line is no secret, so you'd think Roberto Martinez has drilled his men on exploiting that weakness, especially after struggling to create chances at Anfield last Saturday.
With both teams seeming to have very feeble defences, and quite strong attacking talents, a game like this is set up for an abundance of goals. In spite of that, with the game being played at the 'Theater of Dreams' Louis van Gaal will be looking to send a statement of intent out to the rest of the Premier League. Both teams need the three points from this game, but only one can take them home. Let the Barclay's Premier League soap drama resume at Old Trafford when Manchester United face Everton.
Article contributed by: Kevin Santos
Twitter: @kevin5996
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