David Moyes has endured a difficult start to his reign as manager of Manchester United. With his side struggling for form in the Premier League, the Champions League has become a welcome distraction for the new boss. The latest betting tips from Coral News see the Reds as favourites at 4/7 to take the 3 points, whilst their opponents stand at 11/2 to cause an upset. United have started Europe's premier club competition well, defeating Bayer Leverkusen at home and picking up a valuable draw away to Shakhtar Donestk. The visit of Real Sociedad to Old Trafford this evening should provide Moyes with his second win of the group stage. The Spanish side have struggled to rekindle their form of last season, which saw them finishing fourth in La Liga. However, United must be wary of complacency as Sociedad have the ability to topple the English giants. In this post, WhatCulture looks at three danger men who Moyes and Manchester United must beware if they are to defeat the Spanish visitors.
3. Xabi Prieto
The 30-year-old midfielder is the captain and heartbeat of this Real Sociedad team. Prieto was instrumental in his side's end of season run which saw them secure Champions League football. Blessed with nibble footwork and expert delivery, Prieto has earned a reputation in Spain as being one of La Liga's unsung heroes. Having played for Sociedad for the whole of his career, Prieto is a fans' favourite. He is adored for his loyalty to the club, especially as he is good enough to play for a bigger side. The Spaniard's finest performance came last season, when he netted a hat-trick against Real Madrid. Although Sociedad would go on to lose 4-3, Prieto produced a display worthy of winning any match. Sociedad's skipper is a penalty expert and also possesses lethal accuracy from free kicks, meaning United must be wary of tackles in and around the box. Prieto faces a late fitness test to ensure he can make the encounter tonight. Sociedad will undoubtedly be praying that their captain is able to lead them out.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
