Chelsea welcome Manchester United to Stamford Bridge later today and Maurizio Sarri will be looking to progress to the quarterfinal round of the FA Cup competition at the expense of his arch rivals.
Having lost his first game as United manager last week, the only thing in Solskjaer’s mind is how to return back to their invincible form against the Blues.
There are many questions running through the mind of both managers ahead of the much anticipated clash, however, we have come up with some talking points and tactical questions that must be answered by both managers as soon as possible…
How will Solskjaer’s attacking line-up look like?
This is the first question many United Faithfuls would love to ask from the Norwegian if given the opportunity.
Since he stepped into Old Trafford, the former United player has stuck to Anthony Martial, Jesse Lingard and Marcus Rashford at the final third of the pitch.
With Lingard and Martial’s three-week injury, both players won’t be in action and it remains unknown who will replace them.
Alexis Sanchez — who came in for Lingard against PSG on Tuesday — is a major doubt for the game as he will require a late fitness test to see if he will play any part in the game.
As result of the current injury crises, forgotten hero Romelu Lukaku could get an unlikely start at Stamford Bridge. Juan Mata could also replace Lingard at the right flank but can he really deliver from the flank?
Chelsea defence are up for another huge test
United have only failed to score in one game under Solskjaer’s tutelage, hence, fragile Chelsea defence have a lot to do later tonight.
Their greatest defeat this season was the 6-0 they suffered in the hands of Manchester City, they might record another big lost to United should Sarri fail to physically and psychologically prepare his defenders for the test ahead.
United defenders must focus more on Higuain than Eden Hazard
United defenders must forget out-of-form Hazard and pay more attention to winter signing Gonzalo Higuain.
As much as the Argentine hasn’t lived up to his billings, he is one of Chelsea players capable of wrecking havoc at Stamford Bridge.
The away defenders must keep close eyes on him throughout the game in order to prevent him from making any decision that could lead to goal.
A win for Solskjaer and his men will see them progress to the quarterfinal round of this year’s FA Cup competition where they may likely face Manchester City.