Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has compiled his usual predictions for this round of Barclays Premier League fixtures, and admits that on perhaps one of the most crucial weekends this season, Mourinho’s men will settle for a draw on Saturday evening.
Chelsea take on Louis Van Gaal’s Manchester United in Sky Sports’ Saturday Night Football (KO 17:30 GMT), in what could be the title decider should the Blues come out on top.
But Merson believes that Chelsea will settle for a draw, which would keep them 8 points clear of Arsenal and United, with a game in hand over the latter.
Chelsea will be fully focused on not losing the game. Jose Mourinho will set up to contain Manchester United. He’s done it before and, with the title on the line, he’ll do it again.
“The pressure will certainly be off Manchester United. They have a bit of a free swing at Stamford Bridge but this game will be a real test of how far United have come under Louis van Gaal. They have certainly improved but this will be a real test against a Chelsea side that has been the best team in the country by a mile this season.”
Van Gaal’s side have lost only one of their last nine fixtures, constructing a late title charge and seeing off neighbours Manchester City in convincing style last weekend.
I think this will be a tight game and I can see it finishing in a 1-1 draw. Chelsea will definitely settle for that!