Manchester Evening News

FA CUP FINAL PREVIEW HEAD TO HEAD

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Possible line-ups and ratings by Sheldan Keay No doubt he is the best goalkeeper in the world - But this could be his last United game if Real Madrid come knocking again in the summer Has produced some solid performanc­es throughout the season. Has adapted well to right-back after his previous winger role Played well over the last few months but still prone to errors. Will be disappoint­ed after his England snub and maybe out to make a point Has struggled with injuries in the second half of the season but appears to be fit again and ready to take his place. Will be boosted by World Cup call. Has rejuvenate­d his United and England career after making the left-back position his own at the club under Jose Mourinho. Key player now. A good debut season for Matic at United, who will be keen to show his former side what they are missing out on following his move from Stamford Bridge. United’s match winner in the semifinal against Spurs at Wembley. Could be tasked with another man-marking job on Eden Hazard. Had a hit-and-miss campaign but will be keen to prove the critics wrong and show why he was worth the huge transfer fee United spent in 2016 Local lad got the winning goal against Crystal Palace in the 2016 final and would love to repeat those heroics again against Chelsea. Has not made the best impact since joining in January from Arsenal, but can still produce a match-winning performanc­e on the big stage. Stepped up in lots of big games for United this season. Fitness is the only worry after missing the last few weeks. Chelsea keeper is usually rock solid but he had a few shaky moments this season. He is still capable of superb performanc­es on his day. Chelsea’s Mr Reliable. An everpresen­t in a defence that has seen plenty of changes throughout the season. He initially struggled to settle in after his summer switch, but has played regularly for Antonio Conte’s team in recent months. Not featured as much as he’d like this season, but may be keen to impress after securing his England place for the World Cup. Has performed well in his wingback role, but could have a busy afternoon at Wembley against United’s wide-men. A constant threat for Chelsea due to his pace, and is always extremely dangerous from set-pieces. One United must keep an eye on. Has been Chelsea’s rock in midfield. He’ll be tasked with trying to break down and cut out any potential United attacks. One of the best assist makers in Premier League history. A lot of Chelsea’s attacks are likely to go through him. Can be hot and cold with his performanc­es, but could be determined to perform after being linked with United. Chelsea’s key threat. If United can stop him, they’ll likely win the game. Can produce magic at any given chance. Toss-up between Giroud and Alvaro Morata on who will start. Giroud has been in good form in recent weeks.

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