Manchester United: Norwich Fixture Couldn't Have Come at Better Time for Devils
At some point, it's nice to stretch out and take it easy, welcoming all that life is willing to bestow on you. Manchester United have been tried and tested, but on Saturday, they get a bit of the good life.
Sir Alex Ferguson had his boys on a roll to start the season. There was an actual thought they could steam roll through, not only the Premiership, but the Champions League group stage as well.
The no duh moment has happened as United have fallen on a brief moment of humility following two draws to lesser sides.
Stoke City looked like the far more spirited side as Peter Crouch ended United's run in the EPL. Then came their Champions League bout with FC Basel.
Basel had a very real chance of dealing United the ultimate embarrassment with a home loss. Then came the late moment heroics of Ashley Young. The spry winger proves to be a worthwhile acquisition yet again.
The hits didn't dare stop as a whimsical story of doughnut theft hit the newswire involving United keeper David de Gea. The Spaniard allegedly chowed down on a doughnut and failed to pay for it.
The story originated from The Sun, and should be taken with a great deal of salt. However, it illustrates that things have become a tad stale around Old Trafford. If idle hands are predisposed for evil, then stagnant sides are good for about the same.
On Saturday, United get EPL newcomers, Norwich City. This is a match the Devils need to control from start to finish.
There is a very real fear that United may be slipping into complacency. Former United player and coach Paddy Crerand has the same thoughts. "I never thought for one minute that Basel would get a result at Old Trafford, never mind score three goals. So you have to be alive all the time," he said.
The easiest way to embarrass themselves is to overlook a hungry Norwich side. They are young and brash enough to feed off a United side that has merely cashed it in as of late.
This match should be an easy three points. If it is, United may find themselves on the momentum train once again. All you need is one result to make you hungry again.
