Filed under: Arsenal, Manchester United, Champions League, Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: EMIRATES STADIUM, SUNDAY MAY 1, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1405 BSTJust a few weeks ago, Arsenal had it all worked out. They would beat United in front of their own fans to take control of the Premier League summit, having used a game in hand to draw within over-taking distance. Needless to say, it hasn't happened at all like that.
United will kick off at the Emirates Stadium nine points clear of their hosts, who know that 2010-11 will now be just another season that promised so much yet delivered so little. The Red Devils have the title in their sights and, in all probability, a trip to Wembley to contest the Champions League final as well.
United supporters can't wait to see what May brings them while Arsenal fans must once again rely on their memories for the good times when silverware was won on a regular basis. And if that doesn't work they can always book a ticket for the Emirates Cup pre-season tournament in July that should see Thierry Henry, now of the New York Red Bulls, return for a nostalgia fest, although the Frenchman, like the Gunners, isn't quite as good as he used to be ...
Key match-up: Johan Djourou v Wayne Rooney. Who can stop Rooney now he has rediscovered the form that has brought him 12 goals in 21 games since the start of 2011, the latest in the 2-0 win over Schalke in the Champions League semi-final first leg? Swiss international Djourou will try his hardest but won't want the sort of misfortune he suffered at Bolton last week, when a penalty was awarded against him that was softer than a marshmallow.
Form guide: The recent fortunes of the two sides could hardly be more contrasting. Since being knocked out of the Champions League by Barcelona in March, the Gunners have managed to beat just one team - Blackpool. Defeats by United straight after the Nou Camp reverse and Bolton last week were the bread in a sandwich comprising the Bloomfield Road success and a string of draws, against West Bromwich, Blackburn, Liverpool and Tottenham. As for United, since being beaten first by Chelsea and then by Liverpool in early March, they have lost just once in 11 games in all competitions - the FA Cup semi-final defeat by Manchester City. They have won nine and drawn just one of the other games.
Odds: Arsenal 6/4, Manchester United 15/8, draw 9/4
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