Tottenham vs Man Utd: 5 Key Battles

1. Robin Van Persie vs. Jermain Defoe

dafoe van persie Whilst these two may not come up against one another head-to-head on the pitch, the outcome of the match will more than likely be decided on the form of each team€™s star striker. Robin Van Persie has been the driving force behind Manchester United€™s attach this season, and already looks to be worth every penny of the reported £24million Sir Alex stumped up for him over the summer. The Dutchman historically has an exceptional record against Spurs, having scored five goals and setting up five more in his last six Premier League home games against Tottenham. He failed to find the net in the match at Old Trafford, but after scoring nine in his last nine league games, few would bet against the 29-year-old adding to his already impressive tally. United€™s talismanic striker has scored 65 goals in 77 league appearances since January 2011, and the Reds have won all 14 league matches in which Van Persie has scored. Jermain Defoe has also been enjoying a fruitful season in front of goal, having notched up 14 goals so far this season. And although the England striker has only scored once in his last seven appearances, United will be wary of the threat that the 30-year-old poses to their defence. He terrorised Rio Ferdinand with his pace and drive in the corresponding fixture at Old Trafford, and will undoubtedly be looking to add to his goal tally and help his team record a historic double win over United for the first time since the 1989-90 season. So what do you think United and Spurs fans? Which side do you think will emerge victorious and claim all three points? Sound off in the comments below!
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A sports journalism graduate from the University of Sunderland, I'm also interested in films and games. Football is my main passion, and I'm a huge Manchester United fan. My goal in life is to get a job on Sky Sports News next to Georgie Thompson. If that fails, Jim White and his magnificent teeth are a close second. Why not follow me on Twitter @adam_fishwick2