- Manchester United legend predicts ‘tough’ game against former club
- Ferdinand joined Red Devils from Leeds in 2002
- Fatigue could kick in for Leeds who went to penalties in FA Cup tie last Sunday
On Monday, Manchester United are bracing themselves for one of the most intense fixtures on the football calendar.
The Reds welcome Leeds United to Old Trafford for the second time this year, looking to win the latest War of the Roses battle.
There is much at stake for both teams. For one, a return to Europe beckons. For the other, any point is a good point for Premier League survival status. Not many ex-players are better placed to talk about the heated fixture than Rio Ferdinand, who played for both clubs.
‘Tough Game’ Ahead For Reds
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: “I want to go for a Man United win. I think it’ll be a tough game. I think Leeds have had a tough game in the FA Cup against my old team, West Ham, as well, which was a great game.”
Daniel Farke’s side took part in a thrilling 2-2 game against the Hammers in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. The Whites went on to win 4-2 on penalties, but had to play 120 minutes with a very strong line-up.
The victory was played out on 5 April, but Leeds came out of it bruised. Star players Joe Rodon and Anton Stach were injured in the match, meaning they will miss the clash against the Red Devils.
The 47-year-old who made 455 appearances for the Red Devils, said: “I think that emotionally would have been a massive game for them. And I think that might have done Man United a favour, and I think Man United will win.”
Gritty Win Would Boost Momentum
Ferdinand’s optimism for the Reds is rooted in Leeds’ fatigue, but Michael Carrick’s side has gathered the momentum to go into the match as heavy favourites regardless. The home form has been impeccable under Carrick. The team is undefeated with him in charge at Old Trafford, going into the match with five consecutive home victories.
Back in January, the 1-1 draw was a valuable point in the context of the ragged game thanks to a Matthheus Cunha goal. However, the squad has evolved into one of the most in-form teams in the league since then.
Leeds are depleted in defence and midfield, whilst the Reds are fresh. Stach’s absence will take a lot of physicality out of the Leeds midfield. Rodon has been the club’s best player all season, and is expected to be replaced by Jaka Bijol. He is racing to be fit for Monday’s game himself.
For the Reds, Lisandro Martinez could feature in the absence of Harry Maguire, who is suspended for the clash.
With Aston Villa being held to a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest and Chelsea getting thumped by Manchester City, Carrick’s side can extend their lead to ten points over the Blues in sixth. It can also add to the narrative being built that Carrick is the man for the permanent job. It is hard to argue the case against the former midfielder who has lost just one game in charge since arriving.
