United will get physical, says Fletcher

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher said he is ready for the physical battle as Stoke prepare to visit Old Trafford on Tuesday.

English Premier League leaders United are eager for another three points to sustain their title challenge, but Fletcher is wary of the threat posed by Tony Pulis’ men.

“We know what to expect from Stoke,” Fletcher said.

“They’ve really consolidated themselves as a Premier League side and Tony Pulis has done a great job. You know you’re in for a battle when you play Stoke and you have to win that battle and earn the right to play.”

“It’s going to be a difficult game. We experienced that at the Britannia (Stadium) and we’re expecting more of the same at Old Trafford. They always have a go. They look at home in the Premier League now and they know what it’s all about. They have some players who like to attack and Tony Pulis doesn’t like his side to sit back. We expect them to come and have a go at us, as most teams have done at Old Trafford this season.”

“You know Stoke will be physical at times because they lump free kicks and long throw-ins into the box but we can’t neglect the other ways they can cause problems. It’s important you defend as a team and that starts with the front players. Our defensive performances have been very good and we’ll do our homework and prepare for Stoke’s threat. We know they’ll be a danger from set pieces – they’re a big, strong, physical side, so we’ll have to match them and make sure we’re on our toes.”

Striker Wayne Rooney is a doubt after he picked up an ankle injury during United’s 2-1 win at West Brom on Saturday, but midfielder Nani could return having missed the past two matches with a hip problem.

United assistant manager Mike Phelan insisted Alex Ferguson’s men will treat Stoke with respect, particularly given their tag as a physical side.

“Stoke, for us, is as big a game as playing Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool, purely because they demand a high level of attention to detail,” Phelan said.

“They are a very good team. They’ve sustained their Premier League status for a third successive season now and are a competitive side.”

“They certainly give you a run for your money. We respect Stoke a lot for the way the club is run and for what they have achieved. One thing we do know is that we have to be fully focused when we play them.”