Man United Vs Inter

After so much speculation and added interest in the English Premier League, it seems much of the world's attention will shift to the most coveted European trophy, the Champions League.

With mouth-watering clashes set for the last 16 round, viewers and spectators are definitely in for a treat. Three of England's big four will be taking on three of Italy's giants, and as a bonus we will get to see nine-time winners Real Madrid take on five-times winners Liverpool in a trilling encounter.

But let's focus our attention to what could be the biggest an most important clash in the final 16. Manchester United verses Internazionale, a game that will be played at the San Siro on Feb. 24.

With both teams at the top of their respective leagues, showing much determination to hold on to the league titles, they are in form. But who will come out on top?

Manchester United are the definite favourites. Apart from multiple wins and clean sheets in the league, good goal scoring difference and excellent defensive record, the Champions League poses a totally different set of problems for Sir Alex Ferguson.

United have depth in their squad which is a major advantage, especially when you're playing for five trophies, but let's look at the most likely candidates for the Milan clash.

Possible Line-up: E.van der Sar, Rafeal da Silva, Rio Ferdinand, Johnny Evan, Patrice Evra, Ji Sung Park, Paul Scholes/Micheal Carrick, Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo, Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney

Many might argue whether Rafeal will play, looking at the Inter side and generally Italian football, Sir Alex will want to use the pace of the young Brazilian to unsettle the Inter midfield, and having Rafeal and Evra on either side could pose that threat. Unless Sir Alex goes for experience we could then see Gary Neville rather than the young pacemen.

Whether in form and on fire, Cristiano Ronaldo will be identified as a defensive target even if it's just on his reputation. His pace, quick counter attack runs on the flanks, and skillful moves, step overs, and power shots will be amongst his armory.

But it's not just him who Milan need to worry about, Wayne Rooney is back from injury and will look to impress and get back into form. His fighting spirit will motivate the rest of the lads to perform even better.

Dimitar Berbatov, the Bulgarian striker is deadly in the box, and could snatch on to anything and increase his Champions League scoring tally this season.

Sir Alex has found that providing experience into the team will create balance and a definite need for calmness and control in sticky situations, thus the inclusion of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

These men have been here so many times, and their experience is invaluable to the success of the team. With Gigg signing a contract for another year, the Welshman still wants more trophies.

Defensively, both teams are very strong, so we could see a midfield battle, and any lay-offs to the strikers on either end could land a goal.

Inter will also pose a major threat with the likes of Ibrahimovic and Adriano up front, and without Vidic at the back due to his suspension, they could just sneak a goal or two.

Although Inter might be on top, they don't seem to have the "Italian Giant" feeling, looking at their squad there is much depth, and the average age difference between the clubs will be in United's favour.

And that could be the outcome - speed and endurance from the young red devils could just be the downfall of the Italians.

Many have asked the question, "will United go to the San Siro and defend?" The answer is NO! The hunger and passion is currently too strong. Ferguson will go out there and attack from the get go.

So let's hope we see a match filled with brilliance, class, and many, many highlights. And let the best team win....