3 Manchester United players who will be key against Bayern Munich

Manchester United versus Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter finals.

On paper, football matches do not get any bigger than that. However, in reality, it is the clash between the overwhelming favourites for the competition and the rank outsiders.

David Moyes’ first season in charge at Old Trafford has not gone to plan. They are languishing down in seventh in the Premier League and were knocked out of both domestic cup competitions to bottom half sides. This means that Europe’s elite club competition represents the Red Devils’ final chance at a trophy in their first season since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.

Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s first season in charge of Bayern Munich could not have gone any smoother. After winning the treble last season, the Bavarians are on course to miraculously repeat the feat this time around. They have already won the Bundesliga at a canter and were able to rest some key players for this clash in their weekend draw with Hoffenheim.

In other words, the likelihood of United coming through this tie and beating the mighty Bayern are extremely slim indeed. They will need to set-up with a distinct game-plan of frustrating the German champions by defending for their lives whilst attempting to surprise them with rapid counter attacks. It’s certainly easier said than done.

Moyes has to get his team selection right because if he doesn’t it could get very embarrassing, very quickly. As he has proven in recent 3-0 home losses to Liverpool and Manchester City, he struggles to pick the right team on big occasions. The Scot must show he has learnt from his mistakes on Tuesday evening.

Here are three key players for United as the underdogs attempt to slay the European champions.

Alexander Buttner

With Patrice Evra suspended for the first leg after having picked up a fatal yellow card during the win over Olympiakos, United’s back-up left-back Alexander Buttner must step up to the plate.

He is likely to have the unenviable task of stopping Bayern’s flying Dutchman, Arjen Robben, on Tuesday. Buttner played against Aston Villa at the weekend in a bid to get him some game-time before this huge clash.

Buttner Duel Success – PL 2013/14

Although Buttner is not the greatest defender, he always gives 100% when he is afforded a chance in the United team, which is all you can ask for. You get the feeling the game will be decided down that side of the pitch because there is no doubt Bayern will target the Dutchman. Buttner has made just seven appearances in the league and Europe this season, having won just eight tackles in those games.

Danny Welbeck

Danny Welbeck

Welbeck didn’t feature in the weekend win over Aston Villa, which makes you think that he will have a huge part to play here.

With United’s squad having lacked pace this season, Welbeck’s role will be made even more crucial on Tuesday as the Red Devils look to counter the Bayern passing machine. Moyes will surely line up with the England forward on the left-hand side as he looks to give Buttner the necessary cover against Robben and Phillip Lahm.

Welbeck Goals Scored – PL 2013/14

Welbeck combines work ethic and endeavour off the ball with pace and directness on it, meaning he will be a threat to Bayern’s defence should he get a head of steam. The Longsight-born 23-year-old has won 25 fouls for his team this season, has scored nine times and has created 11 chances.

Phil Jones

Phil Jones

A commanding performance at the heart of United’s defence against Bayern could be the making of Jones.

After having struggled to hold down a regular role in the side since his move from Blackburn in 2011, Jones has been trusted as their first choice centre-back in the last few games, mainly due to injuries and suspensions. He is often too rash in the tackle, meaning he can get caught out positionally at times but he will have to be on top form in this first leg.

Jones Defensive Actions – PL 2013/14

Jones averages nine defensive actions per game in the league this season, including 136 clearances, 45 interceptions and nine blocks. He has also won 38 tackles and 40 headed duels.