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

3. Xabi Prieto vs Phil Jones

Sociedad skipper Prieto could find himself up against Marouane Fellaini, but Moyes may look to employ a tactic his predecessor Alex Ferguson used to stop opposition teams ticking. Jones has often been utilised in midfield to do a man marking job. In case it escaped United's notice Prieto hit his first ever career hat trick not long after the turn of the year in a glorious 4-3 defeat for Sociedad in the Bernabeu. Although one of this haul was a penalty, Prieto also punished Real Madrid twice from one on one situations. Bursts forward by Prieto from midfield to support the front three are something the Red Devils need to be careful of. Given that the Sociedad attack is far from the tallest there's no compelling need to turn to Fellaini's aerial presence. Jones fits the bill to anchor alongside Michael Carrick perfectly here. Whatever the outcome this will be a proud evening for Prieto, leading his team out at home against a club with European Cup and Champions League pedigree. Jones may want to play centre back going forward, but Moyes will surely pick experienced pair Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic for this away game.