Cardiff v Man United: Can Cardiff repeat the home heroics against a Manchester side for the second time this season?
Manchester United are placed as 8/13 favourites by William Hill to defeat Cardiff and avoid the same fate that befouled their rivals Man City earlier this season in Wales.
Cardiff have been exceptionally dogged in their home games this season and Sunday’s clash against Manchester United will be another time when this tenacity will be needed as often as problem.
The reigning Championship title holders have held their own in the Premiership this season and some good home form has allowed Malky Mackay’s side to sit in 15th place with 3 wins so far this season.
Cardiff |
11/2 |
Draw  |
3/1 |
Man Utd |
8/13 |
will be a huge boost upfront for Cardiff as they welcome back Danish striker Andreas Cornelius who has been out injured since September with a foot injury sustained in the Capital One Cup and could well start the game.
The international break has been kind to Cardiff with several of their top stars returning from duty unscathed with both Aron Gunnarsson and Peter Odemwingie both cleared to start against United.
Having many of their key players back will be a huge boost for Cardiff who haven’t recorded a win against the defending champions in over 50 years with their last triumph occurring in 1960.
After having a slow start to the season, Manchester United are now starting to find their rhythm under David Moyes and a win could see the defending champions climb from sixth into fourth place.
The major concern for David Moyes will be surrounding Nemanja Vidic as the Manchester United captain is still a doubt following a serious concussion in the 1-0 win against Arsenal two weeks ago.
Although there is still uncertainly over the skipper, there are some familiar names definitely out of the tie as both Michael Carrick and Phil Jones miss the trip to Wales following injuries sustained whilst on international duty with England.
Alongside that, Marouane Fellaini is a doubt after seeking to get treatment over a wrist injury whilst Robin Van Persie is also unlikely to start after suffering for a toe problem that forced him out of Holland’s games over the international break.
With Manchester United likely to be without a few of their top names, Cardiff could be able to pull off an upset if lady luck shines their way on Sunday afternoon.
