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BATTLE OF STAMFORD BRIDGE Sir Alex is prepared for a tough tussle at Chelsea after admitting Andre-Villas Boas has changed the style of the Stamford Bridge outfit. The Blues have regularly competed for top honours with United since Roman Abramovich bought the West Londoners and the manager is relishing the chance to improve on a relatively poor recent Barclays Premier League record at their home. "In the last seven years, there have been battles with Chelsea," he stated. "In the previous decade, it was Arsenal. There have been terrific battles between us and Chelsea. The manager has brought in two or three different players and I noticed when we played them in the home game earlier in the season there was a change in the style from the previous Chelsea teams. "When a new manager comes in on the back of someone so successful like Carlo Ancelotti, changes maybe take time. Everyone has their different philosophy and their different ways of doing things and I think that's what we're seeing with Chelsea at the moment. "It was a crazy game at Old Trafford earlier in the season - it could have been 20-18! I don't think it will be like that on Sunday. I think it will be much tighter." More: Four could return at Chelsea | Boss explains keeper call |
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SMALLING STEELED FOR CHELSEA Chris Smalling thinks Chelsea will provide stern opposition on Sunday as United bid to win at Stamford Bridge in the Barclays Premier League for the first time since 2002. The Reds will have gained confidence from recording a superb 1-0 Champions League win in West London last season when Wayne Rooney scored the only goal and three home triumphs against the Blues have followed since then. "Chelsea have had a few ups and downs, a few poor results, but I don't think you can ever rule out Chelsea," he insisted. "They've won plenty of titles over the years and they have a strong squad, although they've lost one or two players to the Africa Cup of Nations tournament. That will make it more difficult." The away supporters' backing will again provide a lift to the champions as the Reds will look to respond to Manchester City, who can pull away at the top of the table again after Saturday's fixture against Fulham at home. "The fans have a huge part to play," added Smalling. "When we go into those sorts of places, where the atmospheres can be hostile, it's a great feeling to hear the United fans singing songs. And they sing right from the warm-up through to the final whistle. It gives us confidence and added motivation to dig deep and pull out a result." More: Podcast on Chelsea clash | Boss eyes Bridge boost |
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RAFAEL ANSWERS FANS' QUESTIONS Brazilian ace Rafael responded to some questions posed by fans for United Review, the matchday programme... Who's the toughest winger you've faced since you came to England? - Shaun Birch.
I've faced a lot of hard players but I'd have to say Craig Bellamy. When I played against him a few years ago [when he was with Manchester City] it was very tough. He's so quick! And he never stops running, so you never get any rest. I had to be on top of my game against him. It was the same against Gareth Bale of Tottenham. You've been at United now for four years. Does it feel that long? - Alice Osbourne.
Not really. When you stop and think about it, four years is a long time, but it feels like it's gone by in a flash. I've had an amazing time at this club and hope I'm here for much longer. What's been your most memorable game in a United shirt so far? - Ieuan Evans.
I know we lost the game, but I scored my first goal for United against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. That was a great moment for me and I'll never forget that. I also have very fond memories of my debut, against Middlesbrough. I think the first time you do anything it's always memorable and playing at Old Trafford for the first time was a great experience. More: Marginal in Manchester | Rafael rates rival defenders |
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