Manchester United will take the field against Stoke City in hopes of extending their lead in the Premier League table. Here are three thoughts about the match:
Stoke City will give the Red Devils problems
Stoke City started the season well with victories against West Bromwich Albion and Liverpool and a draw with Chelsea. However, in a matchup between two sides who have improved themselves dramatically in the offseason, Sunderland smashed Stoke City 4-0 last weekend. I don't expect Stoke to play a second straight poor against Manchester United.
Stoke City worked throughout the summer to improve the club and managed to get Jonathan Woodgate, Matthew Upson, and Peter Crouch among others to bolster the team's hopes. There is now enough talent on the club to give Manchester United problems at home. I expect Stoke City to play the Red Devils hard, and I wouldn't be shocked if they manage a draw.
Who will line up next to Wayne Rooney?
This is becoming a common question with Manchester United, but thanks to their depth at striker, manager Sir Alex Ferguson has had no trouble finding a solid starter to line up next to Wayne Rooney.
Javier Hernandez was injured late in last Sunday's match against Chelsea after a horrible tackle that forced him out of the match. Ferguson initially feared the worst, but it turns out that Hernandez was able to return to practice this week. The question is whether or not he'll be healthy enough to play.
Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck is fit and ready to take the field this weekend. He was playing spectacular soccer until his recent injury, and I have to wonder who Sir Alex will start if both Welbeck and Hernandez are ready to go.
Welcome back, Rio Ferdinand … again
Defender Rio Ferdinand has been cleared to start after recovering from his most recent calf injury. Hopefully, Ferdinand can stay healthy, but it's beginning to look like his age is starting to catch up with him. Regardless, he's more than capable of manning the Red Devils' backline, and Ferdinand will definitely be needed.
Manchester United has done well to hide their defensive flaws by using a more creative and free-flowing offensive style. However, it's only a matter of time before a team exposes those weaknesses. Ferdinand's return instantly helps close up Manchester United's defensive holes, and it provides a little more protection for young goalkeeper David De Gea.
Prediction
Stoke City has struggled to score thus far this season, and I don't expect it to break through much on Saturday. However, it is a very strong, physical team, and I believe it can the Red Devils a run for their money. Stoke City will keep it close, but Manchester United wins the match.
Manchester United 2, Stoke City 1
Derek Ciapala has been a fan of Manchester United since the World Cup in 1994. His favorite Manchester United moment is when they won their 19th English Championship this season.