As I’ve frequently said, I detest breaks in the season caused by internationals.
While I know they’re necessary, the friendlies really wind me up, as they extend a break that could be shortened. The breaks just kill the impetus in the season, for me.
Enough of my moaning though and at least we’re back to the really important stuff, as in a quite daunting game at Old Trafford.
Or at least it should be a daunting game, as Utd have some pretty formidable form in 2015.
The win at Anfield won’t have done them any harm either and they’ll be chomping at the bit, no doubt.
So why then, do I have a sneaky feeling that we might get something from this game?
The truth is I don’t know, but I had a conversation with a Manc fan about a week ago and he asked my thoughts. I said I had a bit of a feeling and he immediately offered me the draw and the win for a £10 bet.
Although I’m not a betting man, I took him up on the bet, again because of the sneaky feeling, but more because of the draw. It can’t be a bad bet can it?
The truth is though, even though we have had a surge in optimism after Sherwood’s arrival, my bet isn’t logical. Utd are on a roll and we aren’t.
And now, having had second thoughts, I wish I hadn’t taken the bet. Because I invariably lose.
Still, I’ve been really encouraged, because I’ve been looking around the various sites and it seems I’m not the only one who has a bit of a feeling. It seems there are plenty of Villa fans who think we might at least get a point.
And admittedly, we definitely have the pace to worry anyone on the day, if our game clicks.
Team news then and quite frankly, I’m seeing contradictory things.
Ron Vlaar has trained fully, so will possibly start.
Sendoros and Cole returned to training, so may be available.
Okore? I’ve seen reports he’s out and reports that he’s fit.
Cissokho and Baker are definitely out and Cleverley is ineligible.
It seems Utd have RVP definitely out (good news), But Rooney is fine and Falcao is looking likely to start. Smalling is also out after going off for England.
Jonny Evans is suspended and Luke Shaw hasn’t trained all week.
What’s it going to be then?
My head says Utd will just have too much for us.
But my heart says it’s a funny old game and you never know.
Hence I’ll go for 1-1.
Because of that tenner I’ve got riding on it.
And just because I know a few of you like a vote;
[polldaddy poll=8778386]