Manchester United vs Middlesbrough preview: Memphis Depay has point to prove in Capital One Cup clash
A look ahead to the Capital One Cup fixture at Old Trafford
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.It’s a big game for…
Memphis Depay: The Dutch winger has been given just 55 minutes of playing time in Man United’s last four games, but will most likely start on Wednesday. Anthony Martial’s emergence has knocked Depay out of the first team, although Wayne Rooney’s poor form has presented an opportunity for the 21-year-old to re-establish himself at Old Trafford.
Best stat…
10
The number of matches and years since Middlesbrough last beat Manchester United. Steve McClaren’s side won 4-1 at the Riverside in October 2005 with goals from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank, Ayegbeni Yakubu, and a brace from Gaizka Mendieta.
Remember when…
Middlesbrough dented Manchester United’s title hopes with a shock 3-2 win at Old Trafford in February 2004. Two first half headers from Juninho put the visitors in control but United pulled level through Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ryan Giggs. With ten minutes on the clock, Joseph-Desire Job’s low drive sealed a famous victory for McClaren. Man United would finish the season 15 points behind Arsenal’s Invincibles.
Player to watch…
Stewart Downing: The former Liverpool winger’s homecoming has been subdued, but he came off the bench last weekend to score a goal and create another in the 3-1 defeat of Wolves. Playing on the right, his crossing ability could cause problems for Man United.
Past three meetings…
Middlesbrough 0 Manchester United 2 (Giggs, Ji-Sung)
Premier League, May 2009
Manchester United 1 (Berbatov), Middlesbrough 0
Premier League, December 2008
Manchester United 3 (Ronaldo, Giggs, Nani), Middlesbrough 1 (Johnson)
League Cup, September 2008
Form guide…
Manchester United: WWLWDD
Middlesbrough: WWLDLW
Vital information…
Kick-off time: Wednesday 28 October, 8.00pm
TV: highlights on Channel 5, 11pm
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments