Manchester United travel to Preston tomorrow night, looking to advance in the FA Cup. In a year with so many early exits and big wins, Manchester United will be eyeing a spot in the quarter finals without the need for a replay. These are my five things to look out for.
1. Rooney striker?
With Robin Van Persie likely to miss out through injury, this would be the perfect opportunity for the manager to push the out-of-form striker further up, into his normal and arguably best position. This might allow for a certain Ander Herrera to get some much needed game time.
2. Joe Garner
Manchester United should be wary of Preston top scorer Joe Garner, the striker is fit after a three month injury layoff. Garner will be looking to pick up where he left off before his injury and is sure to cause some trouble among the United defence.
3. Herrera at last?
I touched on it slightly earlier but, with the expected move of Rooney to striker, this opens up a slot in the middle of the park for the seemingly forgotten man. Herrera was impressive in the last game against Burnley, in which, he replaced Daley Blind. Herrera’s inclusion in the team is the cause of much debate amongst fans but surely he merits a place at this stage?
4. The Greyson/Beckford factor.
As many fans will no doubt painfully remember, the last time United came up against this manager/player combination it ended in defeat in the third round of this very competition although then, against a plucky Leeds United side. The duo could team up tomorrow and will be looking to emulate their triumph once again.
5. The start of cup winning form.
With some major teams purged from the competition over the last couple of rounds, it leaves Manchester United in a position to potentially claim that elusive 12th FA cup, I hope to see a quick and surgical performance that shows the other teams in the running that United mean business.
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