If you looked back on Alex Ferguson's recent history against Arsenal, you noticed a surprising trend: The Manchester United manager almost always goes 4-5-1 against the Gunners. In five of the last six meetings, he's gone with the extra man in midfield, amongst other surprises. For example, Paul Scholes has only started once against Arsenal in the last two years. Michael Carrick has made all six starts, while Anderson has started three times.
Manchester United Vs. Arsenal: Tried And True, United Goes 4-5-1 With Their Starting XI
Thus, Alex Ferguson's starting XI was somewhat predictable, even if Dimitar Berbatov's form forced us to debate what the Bulgarian would be left out. He is on the bench, with Ferguson preferring to trust a formula that's dominated Arsenal rather than acquiesce to the striker's hot start.
Wayne Rooney will start up-top in front of a five man midfield, likely to feature Michael Carrick as the holder, Darren Fletcher also deployed deep. The line of three in front will be Nani (right), Anderson, and Park Ji-Sung, pinching in from the left.
At the back, Rafael gets the call at right back over John O'Shea. The other three positions are as expected: Rio Ferdinand partnering Nemanja Vidic in the middle, Patrice Evra out left.
Edwin van der Sar starts in goal.
Manchester United Starting XI (4-5-1): van der Sar / Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra/ Fletcher, Carrick, Nani, Anderson, Park / Rooney, Bench: Kuszczak, Hernandez, Berbatov, Brown, Smalling, Obertan, Giggs
See More:
