The Champions League, Match Day 3, CSKA Moscow vs Manchester United
Manchester United: De Gea, Valencia, Smalling, Jones, Rojo, Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Lingard, Herrera, Martial, Rooney
subs: S.Romero, Blind, Darmian, Carrick, Mata, Fellaini, Memphis
The reign of Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has tended to be exemplified by the building up of steam before another big defeat.
In short, Manchester United have flattered to deceive. They are a little like a beautiful car which has a problem that no one can quite put their finger on.
But there is still whiff of progress as LvG’s expensively assembled new team get to know each other.
Players like Rojo, Herrera and Schneiderlin have recently stepped out of the shadows and are now demanding starts.
But this is the beauty of having a deep squad – all these players will get their fair share of minutes if Manchester United are successful this season.
A draw away in Moscow would represent a decent result, with the derby at the weekend.
But you do sense that Manchester United will be going for the win which will put them back in control of this group after a defeat away at PSV in the first round of games.
It should be an open game and all everyone of the red persuasion really wants to see is another start for the sublime Anthony Martial – this kid has the lot.
