Chelsea vs. Manchester United: 5 Things We Learned from EPL Clash

This thrilling match at Stamford Bridge characterized both Manchester United and Chelsea perfectly.

For Chelsea, excitement and brilliance came in mass amounts early and ultimately a lack of mental-toughness led to their relenting of the lead.

Manchester United? Troubles away from Old Trafford seemed like a repeated tale, but a heartfelt rally with copious amounts of character led the Red Devils to a fantastic draw.

The 3-3 result was the best match of the season thus far in the EPL. Both teams fought extremely hard with guts and guile amidst the wonderful goals scored.

Here are five takeaways from the outstanding fixture...

5. Daniel Sturridge Has a Bright Future

In Sunday's match, Daniel Sturridge demonstrated many of the qualities that could make him a potential stalwart on the English National Team for years to come.

The 22-year-old caused the United backline loads of problems, whether he was out on the wing or playing in a central position.

Sturridge often displayed an unabated willingness to take defenders on. He parlayed that exuberance into a tally, when skinning Patrice Evra out on the flank and deflecting a shot off of Jonny Evans, forcing an own goal in the 36th minute.

Although Sturridge is prone to momentary lapses in terms of his defensive responsibilities, he adds excitement and creativity up top for The Blues.

Both Andre Villas-Boas and Fabio Capello should be excited at the continual development of the young talisman.

4. The Health of Michael Essien Is Key for Chelsea

There's no doubt about it, Chelsea is much better side when Michael Essien is patrolling the center of the park.

In his first game back from his latest injury, the Ghanaian injected much needed bite to his side. He was a terror in the midfield, whether it be via his distribution or his defensive capabilities.

His levels of physicality and cleverness are clearly irreplaceable, and his return is a welcome sight to a side that desperately needed his services.

His importance to Chelsea simply cannot be understated. In order to perform at maximum capabilities, Chelsea needs Essien to be healthy.

3. Manchester United Needs Another Attacking Option

Especially during the first half, the United attack was sluggish and non-threatening. Although three goals were scored, two of them were on penalty kicks.

A creative jolt is just what Sir Alex Ferguson's team needs at this point.

A trequartista playing right behind Rooney would suffice extremely well. With the above-average wing play that the Red Devils have to their disposal, a creative force centrally that can spray the ball around the pitch could help aid in the advancement of goal scoring chances.

2. The Spanish Duo for Chelsea Was Impressive

The combination of Fernando Torres and Juan Mata proved to be incredibly dangerous for Chelsea.

One of the many highlights of the match included both Spaniards. Mata's volley goal on the pin-point cross by Torres out on the wing was utterly sensational. The precision and calculated technical ability depicted by both was just fabulous.

Torres looks to be gaining confidence out on the pitch. He's showing creativity from his sometimes drawn-out position on the wing and was threatening on multiple occasions.

If he can regain even half of the form he displayed a couple years ago, Chelsea would be ecstatic.

The diminutive Mata brought great skill in the midfield. He constantly looked to attack and played countless balls up the pitch, looking to unlock the United defense.

His cleverness and composure on the ball was a sight to see, including his efforts from long range that tested Manchester United Keeper David De Gea on multiple occasions.

1. Manchester United Displayed Immense Character

After seemingly left dead in the water, Manchester United magnificently tallied three straight goals and made a monumental comeback to level 3-3.

United displayed the never-say-die attitude that's been a staple in their performances for decades. They simply were not going to be denied.

The experience throughout the squad shone brightly and a level of dogged togetherness coupled with a gritty disposition epitomizes what the club stands for.

What more can you say? Manchester United is pure class.