Who will win the battle on the flanks?
Although United’s play has been pedestrian and their passing at times labored, one area where they have continually shown plenty of pace and penetration is on the flanks. With Antonio Valencia and Luke Shaw operating as full backs, the Red Devils have plenty of pace and impetus going forward, even if they play a narrow midfield diamond with di Maria and Rooney on either side of the deep-lying Daley Blind.
The Swans too are blessed with plenty of pace on the flanks. Their wingers, Jefferson Montero and Nathan Dyer in particular will certainly make life difficult for Valencia and Shaw. If the Swansea pair can stop the full backs from getting forward and joining with the attack, the visitors lose an important dimension of their attack and it will give the home side, the encouragement to go forward and attack. On the other hand, if the full backs prove to be too much for the Swans, then they will certainly have a tough day at the office.
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