Manchester United v Arsenal

Sunday we have the late game in the EPL going up against Arsenal at Old Trafford. Normally this would be marked as a game for everyone to get excited for, and maybe a little stressed. This weekend, however, I will not be stressed out about Arsenal. The Gunners are definitely hurting right now, even with the big win over Udinese to make it to the group stage of the Champions League they are not on top of their game. For starters, they are obviously weak in the midfield due to Fabregas and Nasri going to Barcelona and Manchester City. Next comes the injury to Jack Wilsher, who was showing a lot of promise last season for Arsenal, and could definitely help tighten up the midfield and help with possession. Gervinho is out as well, which leaves the goal scoring directly on Van Persie, because "that Russian guy" doesn't do too much for them anymore. The other suspended players are Alex Song, a necessity in their central midfield, and Song's replacement in young Emmanuel Frimpong. Basically my conclusion of Arsenal is that the team that normally presents a major issue for United every season is not anywhere near the animal they once were, and I don't see any issues.

As for the United side, we should be okay. Missing Ferdinand and Vidic obviously isn't a positive, but Chris Smalling and Phil Jones can most definitely fill in, at least that's what they lead us to believe against Tottenham. The pair are likely the future of the England defense and United's as well. Fletcher is a question mark, but I don't see any need for him to be rushed into the starting eleven, especially with the play Anderson and Cleverley have been showing through the central midfield. Up front don't be surprised to see Welbeck and Rooney together again, especially with the Man of the Match performance Danny Welbeck put together this past week against Spurs. I would almost expect the same 11 that started against Tottenham, minus Ferdinand and Vidic for. The bench will have some experience ready to come on in the event that the young lads can't handle Arsenal, but I do not see that happening at all. My prediction after full time is 3 to 1 United, with United dominating, but Arsenal sneaking one on in De Gea.