Schalke 04 v Manchester United - Preview

Schalke are once again revelling in their Champions League underdog role as they prepare to take on Manchester United, winners three years ago and finalists since, in their semi – final first leg at the Veltins arena.

And according to Schalke’s home record, there’s a lot for Manchester United to be very wary of. The Germans have dazzled in Europe by overcoming the likes of Lyon, Benfica and Valencia, not forgetting their memorable 7-3 aggregate success over defending champions Inter Milan over the last two legs.

But their form in Germany has been little better than shocking, leaving them 29 points adrift of leaders Borussia Dortmund in 10th place – Indeed they’re closer to the relegation zone than the title and many had fears for them being dragged into a battle for the drop earlier on in the season.

Not only that but more worryingly, are five Champions League games - home and away - without a clean sheet, while United have kept clean sheets in 5/5 Champions League away games this season.

Thanks to the incompetency of perennial challengers Arsenal of recent games, and the poor mid-season form of Chelsea, the title is all but Manchester United’s following a hard fought 1-0 win over Everton. The FA Cup blip against Manchester City already seems a distant memory for Sir Alex Ferguson's side, who are two wins away from the title.

                                                                                                               

Dimitar Berbatov failed to make the flight to Germany, but given the form that Javier Hernandez is in, that’s not likely to worry too many people. The magical Mexican is 13/2 to score first with Victor Chandler, while his team – mate and headline grabber Wayne Rooney can celebrate joining the Twitter Club of famous footballers with a goal here. He’s 5’s to score anytime.

TEAM NEWS 

MANCHESTER UNITED - Man United are without Dimitar Berbatov, who didn't travel due to a groin strain. Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick and Ji-Sung Park were rested for the game against Everton, they are both expected to return to the side.

SCHALKE -  Defender Benedikt Howes is doubtful after picking up an abdominal tear in the 1-0 loss on Sunday. Not only that, but Klaas - Jan Hunteelaar, Mario Gavranovic &  Peer Kluge are all absent.   


VERDICT

Schalke have been on a magnificent run of form in the Champions League this year but this will be their toughest test so far and Manchester United may be too good. The Red Devils have kept 5 clean sheets in Champions League away games this season while Schalke have let in 9 goals in this year’s competition. 

Advice 

2 pts Manchester United (7/5 William Hill) 

1 pt Draw - Manchester United (9/2 SkyBet)