The experienced coaches have each enjoyed two spells in charge of the Netherlands national team, while their careers have crossed paths in three different countries over the past 18 years. Louis van Gaal again utilized Juan Mata’s talents in the no. 10 position despite his early season difficulties at the heart of the attack.
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Gavin Peacock scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 home victory, coincidentally the same scoreline was achieved at Old Trafford that season too. “That’s it”, he said. Most teams want to have the ball, but what do you do with the ball? “They have under-performed and we are getting back on track a little bit”.
But while Hiddink insists the club know nothing about a similar big-money bid for Oscar, he admits the Premier League should fear the rise of China. I didn’t see it live, but we hope to have him back on the pitch soon.
“I had some possibilities to go there in the recent past”, the Chelsea boss said, according to the BBC. “In this competition, everything is possible”.
Chelsea, who are 13th in the table, will also be without injured duo Radamel Falcao and Loic Remy, while tricky winger Pedro remains a doubt for Sunday’s clash.
Chelsea’s new signing Alexandre Pato is considered not fit, but Eden Hazard is finally ready and may be at starting eleven.
United could welcome Phil Jones back in to the squad after he returned to full training following a foot injury but Bastian Sweinsteiger remains out with a knee problem.
Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw, Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young and Bastian Schweinsteiger remain on the sidelines while there could be a doubt over midfielder Marouane Fellaini after a knock in the midweek win over Stoke.
As good as Chelsea’s record at Old Trafford used to be so Man United seem to get the better of the Blues at Stamford Bridge. “What they’ve done for me, I’ll never forget – those memories will stay with me forever”.
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He added: “A lot of players have improved their game”.
