3 players who will be key for Manchester United against Olympiakos

Manchester United travel to Athens on Tuesday night to face an Olympiakos team who qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League by way of goal difference, edging past Benfica.

The Greek side hope to inflict upon David Moyes’ his 11th defeat in all competitions, yet there are few who would attempt to argue that the 40-time Greek champions possess a stronger squad than the visiting Red Devils.

Moyes started what many claim to be his deadliest attack for the first time on Sunday as the Red Devils defeated Crystal Palace 2-0, with Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata, Robin Van Persie and Adnan Januzaj beginning a game together for the first time. While it is unlikely that the same will occur on Tuesday, United’s starting lineup will remain strong and certainly capable of damaging Olympiakos’ European ambitions.

Here are the three players who can deal United’s opponents damage this evening and help the reigning Premier League champions seize an advantage to take into the second leg at Old Trafford.

Javier Hernandez?

Javier Hernandez

With Danny Welbeck already injured and Robin van Persie required for an absolutely crucial final third of the season, Moyes may give a start to a player who is famed for his reputation as a goalscoring substitute.

Hernandez Shot Accuracy – PL 2013/14

The Mexican striker has made two starts in the Champions League this season but was unable to add to his Premier League tally of two. However, he has only started four times in the league and, given the opportunity, it is likely that Hernandez would return to the deadly goalscoring form we have witnessed in previous seasons. With 82% of his shots finding the target, Hernandez is obviously talented in front of goal and, as a result, could threaten an Olympiakos defence which has conceded just nine times this season.

Wayne Rooney?

While many have claimed that his new salary is ridiculously high, the simple truth is that, without Wayne Rooney, United would be in a much worse position this season. He has carried the Red Devils at times and Moyes cannot afford to be without him; it is this ability, recognised by the Man United hierarchy, which will pose such a threat to the Greek champions.

Rooney Chances Created – PL 2013/14

Rooney has created a stunning 44 chances this season, nine of which resulted in goals – this is the joint-second highest number of assists in Europe’s top 5 divisions, and only Cesc Fabregas has more. On top of this, he is Manchester United’s second top goalscorer with 10 strikes, a number which Robin van Persie betters only by one, while 62% of Rooney’s take-on attempts are successful. Olympiakos’ defence will have to be very careful not to switch off – they can guarantee that Rooney will capitalise on any lapses in concentration.

Adnan Januzaj?

Adnan Januzaj

Much has been made of Adnan Januzaj’s progress this season, and, with Juan Mata cup-tied, the Belgian could be one of the Red Devils’ biggest threats on Tuesday night. Januzaj has created the third most chances in the Man United side; his figure of 22 is bettered only by Rooney and Patrice Evra (34) and it will be difficult for Olympiakos to shackle the roaming winger during this midweek game.

Januzaj Duels Won – PL 2013/14

Januzaj’s dribbling ability has seen him complete 35/63 take-on attempts and draw 46 fouls; only 6 players in the Premier League have been fouled on more occasions, and only one of these men has played in fewer games than the Belgian. This ability makes Januzaj a huge threat to Olympiakos and, if they are unable to cope with the direct running style of the 19-year-old, it could prove to be a torrid night for the Greek club.