LOU MACARI believes Stoke City are capable of causing a shock tomorrow . . . but insists that Manchester United will have to be below par for it to happen.
The Scotsman was in charge of the Potters last time they secured victory over the Red Devils way back in 1993, and he says history can repeat itself if luck goes City's way.
"Games don't come any bigger do they, that's for sure," enthused Macari. "I think Manchester United have picked up in recent weeks and their only blemish was when they came unstuck at Burnley.
"It was a tough game for them at the Britannia Stadium last year as well, and had that little bit of good fortune not gone their way then they wouldn't have got that result."
He added: "There is no reason why, if United aren't on top of their game and Stoke defend extremely well as they normally do, Stoke couldn't pick up a shock result."
Macari, who enjoyed two successful spells in the City hot-seat during the 90s is adamant the game between his two former Clubs could go either way. And whilst he admits the key players are certainly in the dressing room of the visitors, that doesn't necessarily mean they will come out on top.
"I see it being a very open game if I'm honest and I think there will be one or two key figures in the game, and those key figures I think are in the Manchester United team," he said.
"Mind you, United's goalkeeper has got to be on song and come out and handle the long throw-ins and the crosses which are put into the box.
"The back four are going to have to be willing to defend probably like they won't have to defend again this season. It will be all hands to the pump and they will have a tough job in keeping Stoke out.
"I think it is an evenly balanced game which could go either way, depending on where the break or two goes.
"I think the one thing you have got to say, and we all know it, is the better players are with Manchester United. But the better football players don't always win football matches, especially here at the Britannia Stadium."
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