Prediction: Manchester United vs Chelsea

7th May 2011

With just three more rounds to be played in the Premiership, it all comes down to this. Chelsea were handed a lifeline and they can make a giant step towards the league title by winning a Old Trafford, although that is easier said than done considering United’s recent form. All things considered, the Red Devils remain the favourites for the title, especially as even a draw works for them.

Before the season started not too many people believed United would be able to mount a serious title challenge, with team’s early season struggles only adding fuel to such claims. However, as the season progressed United kept raising their form and just few weeks ago it looked as though nobody would be able to stop them from winning the league title. Nonetheless, recent setbacks against Newcastle and Arsenal saw Chelsea close the gap to just three points, thus turning the clash at Old Trafford into a title decider after all. Manchester United players could be under pressure after squandering a big advantage but if anyone can cope with the pressure it is Sir Alex Ferguson’s team, as witnessed by their 4:1 victory over Schalke in a match used by the experienced manager to rest his star players for this clash. Fergie will now restore players like Rooney, Vidic, Ferdinand and Giggs to the starting line-up, but it is the team effort that should help them gain the upper hand in this tie.

Having started the season in remarkable fashion, Chelsea were considered the hot favourites for the Premier League title, but the Blues suffered a major dip in form midway through the season that threatened to ruin their title bid. The January signings David Luiz and Fernando Torres didn’t have such a positive effect on team’s performances as it was expected, and Carlo Ancelotti’s side needed a lot of time to rediscover their form. That happened in the crucial stage of the season with the five match winning run in the Premiership seeing Blues close the gap behind United to just three points, but they now have to prove their credentials at Old Trafford, as the win in Manchester would prove everyone that this squad still have something to offer. Carlo Ancelotti has fully fit squad to choose from, but it remains to be seen who will partner Didier Drogba in attack.

Conclusion

The best advice I can give you regarding the outcome of this match is to just sit back and enjoy the game, but since this section is all about football predictions, my advice is to back United here. They have shown much more than Chelsea this season and I honestly believe they will win this game as well.

Verdict: Home win Manchester United (1)

Best Odds: 7/5

Bookmaker: Paddy Power