David Moyes believes Manchester United will be raring to go against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park today after their winter training camp in Dubai.
The trip to South East London begins a crucial few days for the Red Devils as they look to keep their dwindling hopes of a top four finish alive.
United also face Olympiacos in Athens on Wednesday, in the first-leg of the last 16 Champions League tie.
Moyes knows the importance of these two matches only too well and having enjoyed the trip to the Middle East he hopes its benefits will show on the pitch.
“It was great that we had some time together with the players – the first time I’ve really had the chance to have a few days with the lads,” Moyes said in the pre-match press conference.
“We trained and had some relaxation time as well, so it was good. You hope you get some benefit from it. I’m sure it will benefit the players, having the chance to relax.”
Of course United were only afforded the trip to the Middle East due to a conspicuously quiet schedule, having being dumped out of the FA Cup by Swansea City.
This is something Moyes acknowledged, making no bones about the fact he would rather have still been involved in the world’s oldest cup competition.
“We’d have rather been in the FA Cup, let me tell you that,” he added. “But we weren’t so the next thing we had to do was get them ready for the 12 remaining games.”
Marouane Fellaini could be set for a return to the squad after spending two months out with wrist and groin injuries.
Phil Jones, who turned 22 yesterday, may return after being side-lined with a calf injury, while Jonny Evans is a doubt.
Image courtesy of TheR3dDevils, via YouTube, with thanks.
