With nobody expecting anything other than a Bayern win, Manchester United and David Moyes should feel no pressure going into this two legged affair. If they can just manage to keep the tie alive going into the second leg, that will be quite an achievement. Bayern haven’t been beaten in the league this season, and going to Germany for the second leg will be a David v Goliath type battle, however, if they can somehow find a performance to keep the tie open, you never know.
The correct blend of youth vs experience must be included to have any chance of getting something out of the game. Moyes will obviously choose De Gea, but there are going to be changes at the back. Rafael missed training today, so Smalling may be thrust back into the action after injury. Evra is suspended and Buttner finished the Aston Villa game with a tight calf, so if he fails to recover in time there could be a problem that will see Valencia take right back, Smalling centre back and Jones left back. Watch this space. Either way, it’s not good news against a Bayern attack that has swept all before it.
In central midfield, Carrick and Fletcher simply have to be partnered up. Fletcher offers enthusiasm, tireless running and the ability to find a team mate, which you don’t see from other potential starters.
Young, Kagawa and the indomitable Januzaj should start to accompany Rooney. The good thing about Van Persie and Mata being unavailable, is that Moyes is more or less forced into making the right decisions. This side looks balanced and able, whether it’s a side that can take on the mighty Germans is unlikely, but stranger things have happened.
