Real Sociedad vs Man Utd: 5 Key Tactical Battles That Could Decide The Game

5. Inigo Martinez vs Robin van Persie

On the several occasions I have seen highly-rated Spain cap Martinez play I must confess that, for me, it's been much ado about nothing. He put through his own net last month and just over a year ago his performances at the Olympic Games were abysmal. Supporters of Martinez will point to him atoning for that malaise as part of the Spain Under-21 side that won the European Championship in Israel this past summer. Ask yourself this: what did the central defenders have to do with Thiago, Koke and Asier Illarramendi in front of them replicating the blueprint of Alonso, Iniesta and Xavi? Martinez used to have the elegant ball retaining protection of Illarramendi at Sociedad, but the Basques became victims of their own success. He was sold to Real Madrid, so Martinez may now be exposed to one Flying Dutchman in Red Devils ranks. RVP leads United's scoring chart with nine this term so far. This time last season he was one goal better off, but has recently been troubled by niggles which were absent them. Van Persie has still netted three in as many matches and will fancy his chances of adding more against this opposition should Moyes unleash him.