Defenders:
If United are to replicate any kind of the start similar against Aston Villa from the weekend, the tie will be well over within the first twenty minutes. The United defence looked very uncomfortable against Villa’s pace up front and were stretched to the limit in the first half.
The defence is quite a concern for the Red Devils as right back Rafael who was subbed off against Aston Villa missed yesterday’s training session adding to the Moyes’ troubles. United coming up against Franck Ribery, who has the ability to score, create, and beat players with his sheer pace will most probably face Chris Smalling who will be deputised at right back if Rafael fails to recover on time.
At left back, youngster Alexander Buttner knows what he is up against in his International team mate Arjen Robben. The 25 year old has the grandest of stages to shine with Patrice Evra suspended for the first leg. Both the fullback’ misery would be compounded thanks to Alaba and Lahm overloading out wide and occasionally drafting in the middle to make space for the wingers. Phil Jones and Nemanja Vidic should play at the heart of the defense trying to keep the prolific Mario Mandzukic at bay.
However, latest report from Dailymail, suggest that Jonny Evans is also back in training along with Chris Smalling.