Just what are Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger forecasting by way of their opponent's plan of attack in this week's Champions League semi-final? Geoff Shreeves of Sky Sports looks at each of the managers from Manchester United and Arsenal, and what they are likely focusing on today-
The Scot (Ferguson) probably has the easier of the two tasks as it would seem that Arsenal only know how to play one way, however he too will be analysing the small details. Will Fabregas be deployed just off Adebayor or will Wenger revert to a 4-5-1 formation as he often does in away games in Europe?
Did Wenger show his opposite number any of his hand in the win over 'Boro that Sir Alex witnessed personally? Is Silvestre really injured? Will Clichy be fit enough to replace the promising but inexperienced Gibbs to face up to Ronaldo? There's plenty there to occupy the mind of 'The Laird' of Old Trafford.
Turn the tables and there is an equal amount of food for thought for the Frenchman (Wenger). The biggest question he is probably asking himself is just what sort of form are United in right now? Results of late have been good but their performances are nowhere near as solid as earlier in the season.
Is the defence that set a record for clean sheets only months ago vulnerable, even with Ferdinand and Vidic? If so, should that set the tone and tempo of Arsenal's game plan? Where will Rooney play? Is Berbatov due a big performance? Questions, questions.
On top of all of that there are outside factors to consider too. Home advantage? With a team as free scoring as Arsenal it could be a distinct disadvantage. Experience? Bar a couple, every United player will have at least one Champions League winners medals, by contrast the majority of the Arsenal squad have never won anything. Plus these two have never met in Europe and football over two legs it is very different. Small details, big prize.
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