Four Key battles between Chelsea and Man Utd – Terry vs Rooney, Costa vs Smalling and More

Before the start of the season, no one could have predicted that this clash between the two giants of Premier League would have no implications of the title race.

However, for both sets of fans, the game remains the one to look forward to; especially for Utd fans, who are still hopeful of their side’s top four chances.

Here are the four key battles that we think will decide the game:

1) John Terry vs. Wayne Rooney

This will be first home game for John Terry following his announcement that he will be leaving the club in the summer. The home crowd will be chanting their captain’s throughout the game, and he will be looking forward to putting in a memorable performance.

He will have a huge responsibility of keeping Wayne Rooney quiet. The England skipper has hit form of late, and his goal in the 3-0 win over Stoke City was his seventh league goal of the season.

2) Diego Costa vs. Chris Smalling

Diego Costa can affect the game in so many ways that it’s always a safe bet to include him in key battles. The notorious striker was again involved in scuffles during the game against Watford.

Smalling will have a difficult job of keeping his cool and keeping Costa in check at the same time.

Hazard impressed during his substitute performance against Watford. He is expected to make his first league start following his recovery from injury. He is yet to score a league goal this season, and he will be itching to open his league-goalscoring account.

His strike was the difference between two clubs in the corresponding game between last season. Darmian was impressive in the win over Stoke City, but he might struggle against in-form Hazard.

4) Anthony Martial vs. Branislav Ivanovic

Martial put in an MOTM performance in the win over Stoke City. He will fancy his chances against the Serbian, who has struggled with his form for the entire season now.