Chelsea FC vs. Manchester United Match-ups To Watch

Courtesy ScROs

2. Robin van Persie/ Radamel Falcao vs. John Terry/ Gary Cahill

Even with their recent results in the league, United still possess players capable of changing a game in an instant. Wayne Rooney will not be available for selection as he serves the final suspension of his three match ban. Starting up front for the Devils will most likely be Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao. van Persie hasn’t been able to continue playing in the league at the high level he showcased during Holland’s World Cup run this summer, only scoring twice. In the few appearances Falcao has had since his move from AS Monaco, the Colombian has looked decent as he continues to recover from a knee surgery that kept him out of Brazil 2014.

The Blues defense should already be very aware of the attacking ability Falcao has. In the 2012 UEFA Super Cup match between the Chelsea and Atlético Madrid, ‘El Tigre’ scored a first half hat trick.

For Chelsea, the defensive partnership of John Terry and Gary Cahill provides a stability that inspires the envy of many clubs. The English duo have been a rock at the back this season, with each playing superbly. The few times when the back line has looked unstable this season have been when they were challenged by pacey players. Some of Crystal Palace’s best chances during last week’s match came from simple long balls that were put into spaces for Frazier Campbell to run onto in an attempt to lose his markers. Shoring up that part of the defense would greatly improve the club’s chances not only for this match but the long season ahead.