Following Stoke City’s 2-0 win against West Brom several days ago, the Potters who are famous for their fortress of a home ground will have to make sure the barricades are well and truly up against an inform Manchester United side, who haven’t lost since their 1-0 defeat to rivals Manchester City on the 2nd of November. A run of nine games without a defeat.
Mark Hughes’ side who currently sit in 11th place, have undergone a change in tactics this season. Stoke who under former manager from a season and a half ago Tony Pulis, were famous for their long ball football. A tactic well implemented for players such as Crouch and Walters. But while the Potters have altered their style of play ever so slightly under Mark Hughes a key feature in the sides goal scoring is their set pieces and whipped crosses for the target men of Crouch and Walters. But from set pieces they are a massive threat especially for a side who defensively has struggled for some time when it comes to defending set pieces. The fragile centre backs of Manchester United will have to cope with Huth, Shawcross, Crouch and Walters in the air.
But on the flipside Stoke City will have to cope with a Manchester United side who have scored in 16 out of 19 Premier League games this season. Rooney and Van Persie both have eight goals and Mata trails just behind on five, the Manchester side who currently reside in 3rd place are hitting their stride at the right time.
Louis Van Gaal has said multiple times that his aim is to win the title but they already trail Chelsea by 10 points so this is another must win game for the away side.
Stoke boss Mark Hughes has said prior to the game that he is aiming for a top 10 finish for the Potters and are currently sitting in 11th, one point off 10th spot.
Manchester United have had good news on all three first team members’ injuries so far. Record signing Angel Di Maria is potentially back for the travel to Stoke after recovering from a pelvic injury. Adnan Januzaj and Ander Herrera may both be involved in tomorrow’s fixture with Stoke after coming back from illness and injury respectively. The only slight injury concern for Manchester United at this moment in time is winger turned wingback Antonio Valencia who may be hampered by a groin injury.
The home side however, will be without utility full-back Phil Bardsley, who is out with an ankle injury.
