United vs Chelsea: A view from the enemy

Chidgey with former United captain Ray Wilkins

Having had The Republik of Mancunia’s Scott the Red’s take on tomorrow’s match it’s only fair we get a Chelsea perspective. Joined by pundits, ex players, Chelsea authors and celebrities, David ‘Stamford Chidge’ Chidgey hosts the Chelsea Football Fancast, a weekly internet radio show discussing all the happenings down at Stamford Bridge.

So I thought I’d get his perspective on how the game would pan out:

The Busby Way:You must be pretty pleased with how this week has panned out. Rooney out, Cesc, Gallas and Arshavin injured too. How do you see this affecting the title race?

David Chidgey: I think it could have a big impact – They are key players for Man U(nited) and Arsenal. It all depends on whether Berbatov steps up to the plate – obviously I hope he doesn’t! We need to keep our players injury free too as we have quite a lot of injuries as well. But with Rooney missing for Utd especially against Man City (SAF this morning has revealed he could make this match) and Blackburn away, it’s got to be an advantage for us, but we need to take it – and we haven’t done that too many times this season. For Arsenal with those 3 players out, it will probably hit them hardest.

TBW: Drogba has been declared fit, but he doesn’t seem to terrorise us the way he does let’s say Arsenal. Do you think he will be a factor on Saturday?

DC: Drogba and Vidic just kick lumps out of each other all match, so basically cancel each other out. If you look back at the match against inter, Lucio and Samuel did an effective job on Drogba, and if Vidic and Ferdinand are on their game it could be the same. I think we are much better balanced as a team playing like we did last Saturday – two wide man and Anelka (or Drogba in the middle) – Deco in the centre of midfield and Lampard getting more room to attack. I’d be tempted to play the same side, but I suspect Ancelotti will change it. As long as he doesn’t play both Drogba and Anelka together – with Anelka on the right then we’ll be ok.

TBW: Who will be your key player?

DC: Malouda or Lampard. Malouda might give Gary Neville twisted blood!

TBW: Which United player are you weary of?

DC: Fletcher causes us problems – I think he’s like Fergie’s mini-me – tough tackling and aggressive and needles the opposition

TBW: What would be your formation?

DC: Got to be 4:3:3 with Anelka or Drogba in the middle and Malouda and Joe Cole left and right – I’d be happy if he picked the same side as last week against Villa.

TBW: Prediction (Result and score)?

DC: 3-1 to Chelsea (more in hope than expectation!)

Thanks to David Chidgey and the Chelsea Football Fancast for their time and be sure to check in with their show early next week to get their take on the game.