Manchester United vs Arsenal Preview
Robin van Persie could return to haunt his former side when Arsenal make the trip to Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday.
The former Gunner has transferred much of his goal scoring prowess to the Red Devils this term with seven in nine league games and will be afforded protection from the baying Arsenal fans only by the confines of Old Trafford.
That the match between two old rivals will be the most anticipated of the weekend only serves to add extra spice to the occasion.
The Dutch international, who signed for 24 million pounds, would appear to have left a significant hole in Arsenal’s leading line.
Replacements Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski have scored just three goals between them in a combined 18 league games, leaving pacey winger Gervinho as the team’s leading scorer with three.
Arsenal recorded a staggering comeback from 4-0 down to defeat Reading 7-5 in a pulsating League Cup clash at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday but showcased not only their ability to score rapidly, but their well-documented frailties from set pieces.
The match featured a timely hat-trick for winger Theo Walcott, whose patience with manager Arsene Wenger on a contract extension is fast running out if he is not granted his wish to be deployed as a striker.
In better news for Wenger, keeper Wojciech Szczesny could return in goal behind a defence that has let in fewer goals (6) than any other side this season, while Jack Wilshere delighted home fans with his long-awaited comeback against QPR last Saturday and could feature against United.
Meanwhile, a young Manchester United side went down to Chelsea 5-4 in extra-time at Stamford Bridge in the League Cup on Wednesday just three days after controversially defeating the Blues in the Premier League at the same ground.
United captain Nemanja Vidic and Phil Jones are both still a while away with knee injuries but Chris Smalling is likely to be in contention for a place after recovering from a foot injury.
Kak Tackle 