The final game of the year - Middlesbrough preview
Rio's injured
By Chris,
December 29 2008
Manchester United will look to end 2008 with a bang as they entertain Middlesbrough at Old Trafford. United now boast three games in hand over their title rivals – and a victory against Gareth Southgate’s struggling side would close the gap on the Scousers to seven points. We go into the game on the back of a twelve-match unbeaten run.
Sir Alex Ferguson has a handful of injury problems ahead of the game. Rio Ferdinand, injured in the warm-up at Stoke, is yet to recover from the back problem and will miss the match. With Wes Brown still out, - Jonny Evans could again start at centre-half. Meanwhile, Patrice Evra is still suspended.
Boro travel to Old Trafford on a miserable run of form. They're without a win since early November and will drop into the relegation zone if Fergie's men can conjure up a heavy win. Southgate will be without midfielder Didier Digard for the match.
Following Chelsea's 2-2 draw at Fulham on Sunday, a win would put United in an excellent position as we head into New Year's Day. With a hectic run of fixtures on the horizon, three points are vital and Fergie will be expecting his players to comfortably edge out an off-form Boro.