3. Nemanja Vidic vs. Clint Dempsey
Nemanja Vidic has undoubtedly been one of the most important players at Old Trafford over the past few seasons. The man is a defensive rock and since he signed for the Red Devils back in 2006, he has established himself as one of the very best central defenders in world football. Another player that has not featured a great deal through injury, the Serb looks to be fully fit and back to his best after scoring what would prove to be the winning goal against Liverpool last Sunday, albeit under somewhat fortuitous circumstances. On his day, there are very few forwards that can best Vidic. His decision making and reading of the game is second to none, and since his return to the first team his partnership with Rio Ferdinand has added some desperately needed stability to the United defence. Signed by Andre Villas-Boas in the summer, Clint Dempsey has enjoyed a mixed start to his Tottenham career. The American has started only 12 league games for the lilywhites so far this season, scoring four goals. Spurs fans have yet to see the forward recreate his sensational form from last season, but with Emmanuel Adebayor away on African Cup of Nations duty with Togo, this may be the 29-year-olds opportunity to shine. A versatile player, Dempsey has traditionally been known for his resilience and natural tenacity, but last season he added another string to his bow goals- and lots of them. Last season Dempsey notched up an amazing 23 goals in 46 appearances for Fulham, earning him the clubs Player of the Season award for the second straight season, and became the first American to reach the milestone of fifty goals in the Premier League. If Dempsey can use this match as a starting point to kick-start his season, Manchester United Vidic included- could find themselves in trouble.