Defenders:
Rafael should start in the right back slot and he needs to make sure that either of David Silva or Samir Nasri hardly get any space to work in between the channels. Patrice Evra is sure to start on the left back slot while David Moyes will rely on the centre back partnership of Phil Jones and either of Rio Ferdinand or Michael Carrick, the former thanks to his experience in big games should be a key man at the back if opted for. Rio Ferdinand who rolled back the years against Olympiacos will have a tough time facing the likes of Silva, Dzeko, Nasri and Toure.
However, last week Moyes started with a make shift back line with Michael Carrick as a centre back partner for Phil Jones which turned out to be a decent strategy. Captain Nemanja Vidic is still serving his suspension for the red card he received during the Liverpool game.
It has been reported by the club’s official website that, Ferdinand and Evra might be available for the Derby, which comes as a welcome news for Moyes.
Midfielders:
If Ferdinand is opted at the back ahead of Micheal Carrick then expect Fellaini and Carrick to play as the double pivot infront of the back four. However, if Carrick is continued to be deployed as a Center back, then Fletcher will have an extended run in the first team. The duo will have one main job – make sure United’s midfield aren’t over run by City’s relentless pressing and accurate passing. Juan Mata will start on his favoured No.10 role in the absence of RVP which pushes Rooney up front.
On the wings, it should be Adnan Januzaj and Ashley Young. Also there are chances of Ryan Giggs involved in the starting lineup. The veteran started in the Crucial Champions League game last week against Olympiacos and put in a breath taking performance.
Strikeforce:
Moyes is sure to field the ever reliant Wayne Rooney to lead the line with Van Persie ruled out thanks to a knee injury. The former grabbed both goals against West Ham, the first one being an exquisite lob from over the half line.
