---
title: "OPPOSITION VIEW: Manchester United (H)"
canonical: "https://readcrystalpalace.com/2015/05/08/opposition-view-manchester-united-h/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Kane Brooker"
section: "Crystal Palace News"
published: "2015-05-08T20:12:00Z"
modified: "2015-05-08T20:19:13Z"
---

# OPPOSITION VIEW: Manchester United (H)

Three points for Manchester United at Selhurst Park would see them claim their 30th victory against the Eagles within 47 games, but after the recent form of the Red Devils, the task could be harder than many expect.

While the Reds are yet to lose against Crystal Palace in the Premier League as it is today, their last league defeat coming in May 1991, they head into the clash on the back of three consecutive defeats, with the early form of Louis van Gaal creeping from the horizon. The club are certainly still on track to achieve their main aim – European football – but every point will be critical and they can no longer afford to drop points against mid-table outfits.

However, the last meeting with Palace sparked a spell of good fortune for the Dutchman, a 1-0 victory shortly after a Manchester derby defeat, commencing a run of six consecutive victories, and eleven games unbeaten. Regardless of recent performances, the general census from the United camp is signs of rapid improvement from the start of the season. Performances against many of the top sides proved the Red Devils were regaining their stance and dominance, and they certainly pose some dangers in their ranks that could threaten Palace.

David De Gea is evidently the strongest force of the side, and will be expecting a clean sheet despite his lacklustre defensive options. While he regularly receives criticism for his performances, the return of Phil Jones will be a relief for supporters, and he should work with the Spaniard in replacement of the youth prodigies of Paddy McNair or Tyler Blackett. And while I expect the duo to be crucial to the side, Wayne Rooney is the obvious threat. A world-class player on a bad day, the skipper is enjoying his form and could lead the line again. I’d certainly expect a goal from the Englishman, and potentially two or three.

But we also pose weaknesses, and until the transfer window, little can be done. Antonio Valencia, simply put, is not Manchester United standard. The winger is now playing full-back, and he is the evident weak link in our side. Yannick Bolasie and Dwight Gayle could both frustrate the defender throughout the game, and if they exploit the weakness, could cause a shock result. Ander Herrera is likely to once again cover to help support Valencia, but that would only open up the middle more. Palace will need to be smart, but if they are, damage could be done.

Hopefully, that damage won’t be caused by Wilfried Zaha. The tricky winger was one of the players to fall foul to good form. Gareth Bale has faced the effects after his move to Real Madrid, and Harry Kane could well have the same demise should he leave in the summer. Prior to his move to Old Trafford, Zaha was on tremendous form. Unfortunately, it was form rather than talent, and Zaha was never going to be up to the standards of European football and battling for the top tier. While I didn’t like his attitude at the club, and his performances gave the club absolutely nothing, I was glad to see him return to a former club, even if we made a loss. He seems to have regained a little form again, but I can’t see the headlines being set on Zaha damaging his former side.

For me, Crystal Palace don’t pose a threat for Manchester United, and their recent form could be changed, but they could work their way to a shock defeat if they play to United’s weaknesses rather than Palace’s strengths.

**You can visit the blog (Read Man Utd) that Kane Brooker is writer and editor for by clicking [here](https://readmanutd.com/).**