It is a top four battle on Monday and two giants of the English game come head to head to try and secure the valuable Champions League qualification. However, how would the teams line up if they were combined on their current form this season?
GK- David De Gea, Manchester United
It has been a tough season for the Spaniard but he has outperformed his compatriot in the Chelsea goal; Kepa. He has made errors that he may not have done in the past and that he has been criticised at times for United’s down fall this season. However, the performance against Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers showed that he still has quality between the sticks.
RB- Aaron Wan Bissaka, Manchester United
A new signing at Old Trafford this season and he has been a rock at the back. His energy and stamina helps his side immensely as he is able to track back and put the all-important tackle in on his opposing winger.
CB- Antonio Rudiger, Chelsea
Since returning from injury, Rudiger has been key for Chelsea. He is a comfortable on the ball but incredibly strong in defence making him a real force to be reckoned with. On average, he wins 3.2 of his aerial duels a game and is totally dominant in the heart of the defence for the Blues.
CB- Harry Maguire, Manchester United
After signing for a huge amount in the summer a lot has been expected of Harry Maguire and some would say he has not fully delivered. However, there have been commanding performances from the England international but just not consistently enough. He recently took the captain’s armband and shown leadership at the back. Perhaps he needs a centre back who will do what he says.
LB- Cesar Azpilicueta, Chelsea
The versatile Azpilicueta seems to go from strength to strength each season. He is ever so reliable and consistent. Even as a full back he has contributed three assists and scored two goals. Easily one of the best full backs in the league.
CM- Fred, Manchester United
Something clicked with the Brazilian this year. From looking like a player who was worth 50p more than £50 million he has impressed fans and pundits a like. His hard working energy has been a joy to watch and his range of passing has improved dramatically. Against Liverpool he did not give the midfielders a moment’s peace. It will be interesting to see where he fits in the Bruno/McTominay/ Pogba debate but he is certainly no pushover.
CM-Jorginho, Chelsea
A lot is not said about how important Jorginho is to Chelsea. A lot of the plaudits normally go to his central partner N’Golo Kante for his tireless work but Jorginho has come into his own under manager Frank Lampard. Under Sarri, he was seen as a scapegoat and the teacher’s pet used to playing “Sarri ball” but he has thrived in this new Chelsea side scoring four goals including one in his man of the match performance against Arsenal.
CAM- Mason Mount, Chelsea
One of the most creative players in the Premier League; something Manchester United are certainly missing. Mount has excelled this year and he has carried on his amazing form from last season under Lampard at Derby. Mount is a tricky player who can unlock defences with ease but more importantly his dead ball situations are up their with the best.
RW- Callum Hudson-Odoi, Chelsea
It was a tough one between the impressive England winger and Daniel James but Hudson-Odoi nicks it. Despite James starting the season well, he has tailed off whereas Hudson-Odoi is in fine form now that he is starting for Chelsea. Goals against Nottingham Forest and Burnley show how much of a threat the pacey winger can be in front of goal as well.
LW- Marcus Rashford, Manchester United
Before his injury Manchester United were flying in attack. He was doing everything right with the freedom to start from a wide position and run at scared defences. Goals were coming on a regular basis for the United lad as he scored 14 goals in all competitions since netting against Liverpool in November. United are in desperate need of his return.
ST- Tammy Abraham, Chelsea
Abraham is one of those strikers who does not have to score all the time and still manages to contribute a lot to the game. He is quick, agile and good in the air. Many questioned if he could show his Championship form in the Premier League for a big side like Chelsea but he has silenced any critics with 15 goals in all competitions. He has a deadly touch and could be on the plane to Euro 2020.
