Manchester United vs Tottenham: 5 Key Battles

3. Shinji Kagawa vs. Sandro

Since making his move from Borussia Dortmund this summer, Shinji Kagawa has quickly established himself as one of the key men in the Manchester United side. As an attacking midfielder, the Japanese international has all of the necessary attributes to trouble Villas Boas€™ side. A player with great vision and technical ability, Kagawa scored his first goal on his home debut for the Reds, and has promised many more to come. In his short time at Old Trafford, he has shown the ability to beat players at will and spot a pass, earning praise from his teammates and fans alike. If Spurs are to get anything from the match, they will have to win the battle in midfield €“ and that is where Sandro comes in. The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the best young defensive midfielders in the Premier League, and played 23 times in the league for the North London side last season. A tough-tackler and a technically sound player, Sandro will have to be at his best to stop Kagawa marauding forward and causing problems for the Tottenham back four.