Javier Hernandez is available and seems set to continue alongside Wayne Rooney up front for Sir Alex Ferguson’s league leaders as Man United look to maintain their 100% record with a tricky test at Stoke. Rio Ferdinand could return in central defence, whilst Chris Smalling will be hoping to shake off a groin injury. Tony Pulis’ side are without Kenwyne Jones who’s nursing a sore hamstring; Cameron Jerome and Peter Crouch should lead the line, unless Pulis decides to move Jonathan Walters from his recent role on the wing.
Daniel Sturridge is ruled out for Chelsea‘s visit of Swansea, but should be back next week. His absence opens the door for Nicolas Anelka to come in up front with Fernando Torres and Juan Mata in the three-pronged attack. Didier Drogba is another option for Andre Villas-Boas but with no game time since his concussion at Norwich, the Ivorian might have to make do with a substitute role. Brendan Rodgers must decide whether to recall the recovered Danny Graham or prolong Leroy Lita’s outing as the Swans’ lone forward.
Bacary Sagna is fit for Arsenal after overcoming a knock picked up in the defeat at Blackburn, but Yossi Benayoun is sidelined. Rafael Van der Vaart should slot back into the Spurs’ lineup, although Benoit Assou-Ekotto is a doubt with illness and Niko Kranjcar is ruled out. Darren Bent is out for Villa, who could welcome back the 50/50-rated Jermaine Jenas. David Goodwillie and Morten Gamst Pedersen are back in contention for Blackburn, but will Steve Kean find space on his team-sheet for the pair?
Buckle in to the driver’s seat and stay abreast with the latest injury reports, selection rumours and our predicted lineups over at Team News. News updates continue to flash through our ever-dependable Twitter feed, direct from the clubs and media.
