With the world of football still coming to terms with the saddening news of Fergie’s retirement, the Scotsman prepares to pick his final Manchester United team to play at Old Trafford this Sunday.
With both teams having no fears of table positions in the Premier League, the Reds and the Swans are able to relax and play without any pressure, meaning that the game could turn out to be an enjoyable one for both sides.
It is safe to say that Sunday will not be a customary final home game for Manchester United, and after Friday’s usual pre-match press conference being cancelled, the entire football world will be eager to hear Sir Alex’s very last annual address to the crowd. With many United fans (including myself) having never seen any other man sat in the dugout at Old Trafford, it will certainly be an emotional send-off for a man deemed a “legend of football”.
Manchester United:
As well as a tearful goodbye to Sir Alex, the Reds will be presented with their 20th Premier League trophy, and a win against Swansea would certainly be an added bonus to mark the end of an era in Manchester United’s history. In addition, after losing two of their last three fixtures at Old Trafford the champions will be eager to mark their penultimate game of the season with a win.
After recovering from injury it is likely that Scholes will return for the Reds along with Welbeck, who after a knee injury is expected to return. There is also the possibility of Rooney starting after being on the bench last weekend. Due to Rafael’s suspension it is likely that Jones will make an appearance at right back, or possibly Smalling who will have a late fitness test after picking up a knock. Young (ankle/foot) and Fletcher still miss out.
Swansea City:
The Jacks have certainly had a successful season. Along with sitting in ninth position in the Premier League, the Welsh side also won their first major trophy earlier in the year with a victory at Wembley in the Capital One Cup. However Laudrup’s side are still hungry for victory after a midweek win against Wigan Athletic. This season has been a great success for their manager, with the Dane exceeding the expectations of many in his first year in charge of the Swans.
Swansea may be without their keeper Michel Vorm after suffering from a head injury he received at Wigan, therefore it is likely that Tremmel will feature in goal. The Jacks will also be without Rangel who has no return date from a calf/shin injury. However it possible that Lamah who has been out with a hamstring injury could feature, along with Flores (calf/shin), Sung-Yueng (hip/thigh) and Michu (hamstring) could return after having late fitness tests.
Referee:
The whistle blower tomorrow will be Jon Moss, who joined the Select Group Referees in June 2011. United fans will recognise him this season from taking charge of the 2-0 home victory against West Brom and our away win against Stoke City.
Facts:
The game will be Sir Alex’s 1,499th game in charge of Manchester United.
In nine attempts since 1931, Swansea have never beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Victories in their final two games of the season will help the Reds equal their best ever points haul from a Premier League Season.
Manchester United have won 304 of 404 Premier League home matches under Fergie, a win rate of 75%. Will United fans be tempted to check out the latest Manchester United free bets on offer before the game takes place?
- Manchester United have won 304 of 404 Premier League home matches under Fergie, a win rate of 75%.
There may not be a dry eye in the house as the team parade the trophy around the pitch at the end of the game on Sunday. Life without Sir Alex is still hard to imagine, and saying goodbye to him is just as surreal.
Enjoy the match, and celebrate the career of a phenominal manager.
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