Manchester United v Chelsea: Jamie Redknapp's pick of the teams

02 April 2010 23:28
It's always an interesting experiment to pick a composite team. Of course, you have to rely only on available players, which means, sadly, I can't include Wayne Rooney or Ashley Cole.[LNB]Out of action: Rooney is not available for selection[LNB]The line-up should be an indication of the form team, although this one has eight Manchester United players and only three from Chelsea. And I'm not sure there is that much to choose between the sides.[LNB]Certainly, it has been a healthier week for Chelsea and they are benefiting from being out of the Champions League. The intensity of the matches takes a lot out of players and teams, as well as United losing Rooney and Arsenal's loss of Cesc Fabregas. [LNB]There is a feeling the three heavyweight clubs are limping into this weekend's matches.[LNB]Manchester United versus Chelsea is like a cup final; a fixture with so much riding on it. [LNB]Can Chelsea seize the initiative and continue their recent return to form? One of the key areas could be the starting position of Frank Lampard, who has scored five goals in his last two games, playing just behind the front line.[LNB]Anyway, here's my team. I've changed the formation from 4-4-2 since losing Rooney to injury. Who would be a manager, eh? Tell me online if you agree with it.[LNB] GOALKEEPER (4-3-3)Edwin van der Sar(Manchester United)Has overcome injuries, excellent in Munich and displaying typical consistency. No fuss, no flapping.[LNB] Number one: Van der Sar[LNB]DEFENDERSRight backGary Neville(Manchester United)Great to see him back. He's a proper professional with an obsession to his game. [LNB]Playing well going forward and defending, with a chance of making England's World Cup squad now. [LNB]Left backPatrice Evra(Manchester United)Strangely troubled in Munich, but such an attacking outlet for United recently. [LNB]Will look to get upfield against Chelsea and offer a wide option. Enjoying a good season [LNB] Centre backRio Ferdinand(Manchester United)Not back on top of his game but United will be better for the England captain returning to their starting line-up regularly. [LNB]I hope his back injury is behind him now for the run-in and the World Cup.[LNB]Centre backNemanja Vidic(Manchester United)Sir Alex Ferguson says he was world class against Bolton and, while hehas looked solid in his recent matches, has not recovered the form oflast season. Again injuries have been a problem, but showing signs of arecovery. And he would be in my team.  [LNB] Solid as a rock: Ferdinand and Vidic[LNB]MIDFIELDERSCentral midfieldDarren Fletcher(Manchester United)Another dynamic season for Fletcher who just gets better with every match. Like all the top central midfielders, the Scot is showing he can run a game now. Can still put his foot in. [LNB]Central midfieldPaul Scholes(Manchester United)He's still such a class act.I remember training with him and playing against him, but he looks at home in the pace and intensity of the Premier League and can still pass a team to death. [LNB]Central midfieldFrank Lampard(Chelsea)Any manager would take Lampard (right) in their side; 20 goals a season regularly and just keeps finding the target. Hungry for the drag-backs and knock-downs in the box and such a cool finisher. [LNB] [LNB] Dream team: Scholes and Lampard[LNB]STRIKERSRight attackerAntonio Valencia(Manchester United)Wasn't picked in Munich, but maybe he was being rested for today. The main supplier for Wayne Rooney's new-found ability to finish with his head. Delivers accurate crosses at speed. A good first season with United. [LNB]Centre forwardDidier Drogba(Chelsea)When he's fit, he's ferocious. I've heard people saying this week that Chelsea play better without him. That's nonsense! Those critics should try to be a centre back having to mark him.[LNB]Left attackerFlorent Malouda(Chelsea)Enjoying a good season and a terrific run of form. Can play wide, but drifts inside and has offered an attacking threat to Chelsea this season. Will be a big player for them at Old Trafford [LNB] [LNB] Main man: Drogba[LNB]HAS JAMIE GOT HIS TEAM RIGHT? HAVE YOUR SAY IN THE COMMENTS BOX BELOW...  Fired-up Fergie: Man United can beat Chelsea without injured ace RooneyCan Dimi be a King? Bulgaria star has talent to replace main man RooneyWayne Rooney relief as Sir Alex Ferguson confirms Manchester United striker will only miss two to three weeksEuro pain for United and Arsenal can be Chelsea's gain, says AncelottiMANCHESTER UNITED FC

Source: Daily_Mail