Basel vs Manchester United

Not many predicted, I don't think anyone did, Manchester United would have to at least draw away to Basel, in Switzerland, to stand a chance of progressing through to the last 16. Not the most familiar of territories for Manchester United, who have not replicated their domestic form to Champions League form. Instead, we've seen some subdued performances from The Red Devils, and most of that is primarily down to Sir Alex Ferguson's squad rotation policy, which, in truth, has hindered Manchester United's progress. However, in essence, they should be top of the table, without any excuses. Manchester United currently lie behind Benfica, with 9 points, on goal difference, while Basel are a point adrift. This game could go either way, Manchester United or even Basel have a chance of topping the group. This is not the Champions League predicament you expected them to face at the start of the season.

It's unbelievable how much Manchester United has changed as a team since the 1-6 defeat to their arch rivals, Manchester City. Prior to the defeat, they were playing fluid, free flowing, attacking football, which was the best you could possibly get out of this current side (debatable), but they had a very leaky defence, most blame should be on the two central midfielders, Anderson and Cleverley, who have left masses of space for the opposition to exploit, which ironically didn't go noticed until Manchester United faced Basel at Old Trafford, in the breath taking 3-3 draw, but Cleverley wasn't present. Currently, Manchester United aren't playing the best of football, far from it, but they're getting the results which is the most important thing. As opposed to the beautiful elegance of their football at the start of this season, we're witnessing a lot of labour, just grinding out the win, showcasing the steel that makes Manchester United, well, Manchester United.

de Gea

Smalling - Vidic - Ferdinand - Evra

Jones

Fletcher - Giggs

Nani - Rooney - Park

David de Gea is expected to return in goal, after being rested against Aston Villa. Since the Bolton game away from home, which Manchester United comfortably won 5-0, the young Spaniard's confidence has risen to new heights; who would've thought that? He's gone on to make some crucial saves, just take a look at the last few games, where he has made some world class saves. Put all of that aside, it doesn't matter what you've done or what potential you have, de Gea simply has to put all nerves to one side, arguably this is his biggest game in a Manchester United shirt, based on circumstances alone. At right back, the ever so reliable, Chris Smalling. Smalling has flourished as a right back, showing how versatile and valuable an asset he is. On the other end, Patrice Evra, who has looked a shadow of his former self for quite some time, hasn't performed consistently enough in the Champions League, he simply has to deliver. At the heart of the defence, Nemanja Vidic, who has been sorely missed, and Rio Ferdinand, who looks more confident and solid with Vidic by his side. Not expecting them, especially the former, to lose any aerial duels, with the way they've performed over the past few games. Destitute of authority? Not any more.

With the absence of Michael Carrick, which is a big blow considering he was Manchester United's best player last month, Phil Jones is the ideal man to take his role, which is where he essentially started off as with Blackburn (as a defensive midfielder). Performed considerably well against Aston Villa, scoring his first career goal with Manchester United. To partner him: Darren Fletcher and Ryan Giggs. Fletcher's industry is essential in a game of this magnitude, and, well, Giggs... something tells me he's going to be the creator in the middle of the park. It's not the most creative midfield on display, but the industry that Jones and Fletcher offer will help Manchester United's midfield battle. A 4-4-2 simply cannot be deployed, unless you want to get outnumbered, which we've seen far too many teams over the past three seasons, if you're a Manchester United fan.

Finally, Luis Nani to attack down the right. The Portuguese delivery (not corners) specialist has been reignited after his impressive performance against Benfica. He simply has to start, you need quality in abundance in this game, and there's no one better than Nani down the right, simple as. On the left, the ever so industrious, Park Ji-Sung. Park has degraded in quality, he performs extremely well in big games, which is one of the main reasons he has to start, but when he has faced inferior opposition this season - he has flattered to deceive. The lone striker, Wayne Rooney, will have to be on his best behaviour. No need for stupidity, no over exuberance. Hasn't scored for 9 games in the league, his midfield transition hasn't done him any favours, but has shown glimpses of the quality he showed in 09/10. Expect him to lead the line efficiently.

Let's face it, Manchester United should've qualified into the last 16 last week, when they faced Benfica at Old Trafford, or even earlier. The enduring problems with regards to Ferguson tweaking the formation and personnel has done The Red Devils no favour. Now, even if they do qualify, they can potentially face the likes of Barcelona or Real Madrid. What Manchester United have shown over and over again, is that they are more than resilient, they can bounce right back up from an upset. Sit tight, folks, because it's going to be a bumpy 90 + mins of football you will witness on Wednesday night, far from predictable, too.