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Psychology plays a big part in sport, we all know that. But what do you think of the mind-games between rival managers. Does it have an effect on the players? IF we believe that the mind-games can have an effect, surely this critical period of the season is the right time to use them, no? I am no psychologist, but here is my view on some of the important moments this season. 1. Wigan is placed in no-man`s land on the table. I think Rafa should make some provoking comments about how Wigan is going to roll over for United and not put up a fight. That CAN fire them up a bit more for the match. Many of you will remember a similar situation in 1996-97 (I think) when Newcastle had the advantage over United and had a match coming up against Forest, who had nothing to play for. Fergie indicated that Forest was going to be battered as they had no ineterst in the match. The result? Forest played like their lives depended on it and beat Newcastle. After that it was advantage United and they never looked back. 2. Is it right by Rafa and the players to keep on insisting that United WILL drop points? I think it only make them even more determined to take 3 points in every game. Why not appear to be defeated and congratulate them with the title – it may lull them into a false safety. (OK I know this one may seem far-fetched). 3. A case of failed mind-game: I supported Rafa 100% in his attack on Fergie in january, but only until I saw the way he set up the team and tactics against Stoke. You got to walk it as you talk it. To underline our intent we should have gone straight for Stoke`s throat and tried to batter them. Well, you know what happened; a sheepish 4-5-1 formation with Kuyt alone in front, resulting in another 0-0 draw against the mighty Stoke. I think that actually gave United a boost. 4. Arsenal can have a key-part in the outcome of the title race, but what does Wenger want? I do not like the new cameraderie between Wenger and Fergie. Everyone assume that Arsenal will want to make a point and try hard to win against United next weekend. Why do I get a nasty feeling that Wenger really don`t want us to win the league, that he don`t want us in the good company of the few teams that have won it since 1992? (VERY speculative and paranoid I know, but I am just sharing my inner thoughts and gut feeling on the subject) --- So what do you think? Just bullshit or something to be aware of? Oh, by the way: This is NOT in any way meant as an attack on Rafa.

Just looked at the ressie team playing tonight amd the most notable absence is Nemeth. Although it includes Mr Ngog. I believe Nemeth had a blinder at the weekend so it may well see him promoted to the bench ahead/instead of Ngog. Thoughts chaps?