Angel Di Maria's Absence Would Be Blow to Manchester United's Hopes vs. Chelsea

You could almost hear the groans from Manchester United fans when Angel Di Maria limped off at the Hawthorns on Monday night and quickly strapped an ice pack to his right thigh.

The immediate concern was that his exit would damage United's chances of finding an equaliser against West Brom, although Daley Blind did secure a point three minutes from time with a well-taken goal.

There was also initial bewilderment that Di Maria had gone off to be replaced by Ashley Young, a player who's still trying to mend his relationship with the supporters after two seasons of poor form.

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But as Di Maria sat on the bench nursing his injury, there was also a realisation that United could now be without their best player for games against Chelsea and Manchester City.

The Argentinian has been so good since his £59.7 million move from Real Madrid in the summer that, with him in the team, it's not beyond the realms of possibility that United could win their games against the two title favourites.

But without him, it's difficult to see Louis van Gaal's side scoring enough goals to make up for their deficiencies at the back.

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It's testament to Di Maria's form this season that he has upstaged some wonderfully talented players. The pub conversations haven't been about Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie or Juan Mata. Even Radamel Falcao hasn't had top billing in the bar rooms.

The talk among fans has all been about their new No. 7: his pace, skill and technique, and whether he's comparable to those who have gone before—George Best, Eric Cantona and Cristiano Ronaldo.

It's still very early to be making those comparisons. But it gives a small insight into the impact he's already made and more than just the three goals in his first six games.

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He's the type of player who scares opposition managers. And that includes Jose Mourinho. Chelsea are playing like title contenders. But there will be a warning in the team meeting ahead of the trip to Old Trafford about what Di Maria is capable of if you give him enough time and space.

Both Chelsea and United spent heavily in the summer. But while Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa have settled in quickly at Stamford Bridge, United are still being carried by individuals.

One set of stars have already jelled and are playing like a team. The other set, Van Gaal's set, are still finding their feet, reliant on the individual brilliance of players like Di Maria to win games.

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If Di Maria does miss out against Chelsea, United will be without their most potent attacking weapon for their biggest game of the season so far.

United have assembled one of the most fearsome forward lines in the world. But during an inconsistent start, Di Maria's high level of performance has been the only sure thing.

Even with Van Persie, Rooney, Mata and Falcao in the squad, there'll only be one name the fans will be looking for when the team is announced an hour before Sunday's game with Chelsea.

And you'll be able to hear the groans if Di Maria isn't in it.