Sir Alex will have mixed moods as he tries to motivate his squad to another victory while hoping Carlo Ancelotti will somehow slip up at home to Wigan Athletic. The
Red Devils have been trailing Chelsea since their mid-April draw at Ewood Stadium, where they lost the drivers seat. They will face an energized
Stoke City side that defeated Fulham FC at Craven Cottage on Wednesday.
Manchester United have had an interesting season after transferring their best player to Real Madrid for a record fee. Cristiano Ronaldo left Old Trafford last summer and many expected the Red Devils to struggle in the title race after Sir Alex spent only a few million in to replace his leading scorer. However,
Wayne Rooney proved he was equal to the task after netting 31 times so far and earning comparisons to his Portuguese counterpart. With the Champions League and other tournaments no longer a problem, Sir Alex will try to motivate his squad in one last bid for a record Premiership title.
Stoke City's season is pretty much over but they have continued to perform despite securing a safe middle-table position. The away victory over Fulham followed a creditable draw against Everton FC. The Potters have shown spirit after an embarrassing 7-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge 2 weeks ago.
Much like Chelsea,
Manchester United have everything to play for this Sunday and will not hold back against a side that their title rivals defeated so heavily. The Red Devils will give their very best this Sunday in a last attempt at winning a record 14th title. However, they have been unconvincing in recent outings and Stoke will want to avoid another embarrassing defeat.
Manchester United - Stoke City
Sunday 9 April, 2010
Kickoff: 3:00 PM (GMT)
Venue: Old Trafford (Greater Manchester)
Tip: Stoke City +2 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 2.06 @ Bet365
