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Chris Smalling Confident Of Triumph Ahead Of Manchester United Vs Chelsea
Chris Smalling is very much in a confident mood ahead of Man United's important match against Chelsea tomorrow after he stressed that the Devils have what it takes to earn a victory at Old Trafford, which could ultimately lead them to their record 19th league title."Our confidence at home goes up another level. We have made Old Trafford a real fortress so, hopefully, we can put the whole thing to bed.
"Fair play to Chelsea. They were a long way behind not that long ago and have caught up.
"But we have been top for so long, I can't see us letting it slip away now. The title is still in our hands and the fact we can put it to bed by beating Chelsea at Old Trafford sets up what is going to be massive occasion."
Champions League – Manchester United vs Marseille: What Are The Reds’ Plans?
What Manchester United’s 0-0 Draw Means
The first thing everyone can understand is that the Red Devils must avoid a score draw if they want to cross the Last 16 of the UEFA Champions League. In such instance, the away goal rule will automatically put Olympique Marseille through to the next stage of the competition.
Evidently, defeat for Manchester United at Old Trafford will create the same result: an European exit for the 2008 UEFA Champions League winners. In conclusion, Manchester United are left with only one option as they aim to reach Wembley; they must beat Olympique Marseille or kick out.
Interestingly, drawing is still an alternative and how so? Since extra-time exists in knock-out stages games, a 0-0 score line within 90 minutes of football may be good enough for the Red Devils to maintain their Champions League aspirations alive.
How Manchester United Suffocated Arsenal As They Marched Into The FA Cup Semi Finals
After losing to Liverpool and Chelsea, it was an important clash for United as they looked to bounce back. However, the whole clash was a lot more important for Arsenal, who have seen themselves lose out in two competitions over the space of two weeks. This game was being billed as the 'Battle Of Two Wounded Giants' and hopes must have been high for the 9,000 Arsenal fans, who traveled all the way to Old Trafford when they saw the team put out by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Jack Wilshere heated up speculations before the game when he stated that United might bet tempted to start with a weakened side, with a Champions League tie this Tuesday on their mind as well. But while Sir Alex Ferguson did field a weakened side, it was a line-up that nobody in a right state of mind would have predicted.
While Arsenal fielded arguably the best side available to them, Manchester United started with 7 defenders on the pitch. United were totally outplayed in midfield by Liverpool the week before and many speculated that his midfielders could be dropped for this match as a punishment for their dismal showings. And it all seemed to make sense when Sir Alex opted to start with only one recognized midfielder on the pitch, Darron Gibson. But believe it or not, it was this tactics that eventually won them the game. Live Soccer TV provides some analysis to how this particular tactic suffocated the Gunners.
Chelsea Vs Manchester United: Chris Smalling Is A Real Bonus For Us - Sir Alex Ferguson
Chris Smalling was brought in from Fulham last summer and despite making a slow start, the young defender has impressed over the last few months and Sir Alex has admitted that having him in the squad is a real bonus for the team.He told Inside United: "We are very pleased with his performances. It's an outstanding contribution he has made. But, do you know, I expected him to do well. I had no doubts about him.
"He's done really well for us and he is improving all the time. He is developing all aspects of his game because he wants to learn and improve. He likes defending, he enjoys it. So he's a real bonus.
Chelsea vs Manchester United: Smalling Warns Chelsea Of The Red Devils' Hot Strikers
The 21-year-old defender is looking forward to Tuesday’s big showdown against Chelsea at the Bridge with a lot of confidence. The player, who displayed a brilliant performance for the Red Devils against Wigan Athletic last weekend, could be named to face the Blues in London as well. Following his departure from Fulham, Chris Smalling stands a great opportunity to develop at the very top level and win a trophy as early as this season. In the English Premier League, Manchester United are 4 points clear of second-placed Arsenal while Chelsea are 15 points behind them in 5th position.