Manchester United travel to the Basque Country knowing another win over San Sebastian side Real Sociedad would take them to the safe haven of ten Champions League group stage points. Defenders Jonny Evans and Rafael miss out with back and ankle problems respectively whilst midfielder Tom Cleverley has travelled, but is a doubt after suffering double vision in the win over Fulham. The Guardian's latest report is that Michael Carrick won't travel for the game. An early own goal in the reverse fixture was enough to take the Red Devils past last season's surprise package in La Liga. Sociedad gave a good account of themselves at Old Trafford, but look destined to finish bottom of the group in their maiden Champions League campaign. Like United the Spanish club are under new management. Philippe Montanier left Sociedad as he was out of contract in the summer and moved to Rennes. He was replaced by assistant Jagoba Arrasate, a 35-year-old former forward who has been on the staff since 2010. The Red Devils and Sociedad meet for only the second time in competitive action. It's round two of the haves versus the have-nots of European football. We look at five tactical battles which will be vital to the hopes of David Moyes and the Premier League champions.
Jamie Clark is a qualified Web Journalist after undergoing professional training at the University of Sheffield. A prolific and accredited sports writer, he also enjoys classic comedy, historic fiction, 80s music and heritage.
