He went on to become the assist-king, delivering 22 passes that lead to goals in his first two seasons. Sturridge missed the start of the season as he returned to fitness following a hip injury. nued to light up the Emirates, and has become the focal point of Arsenals creative play. Reuters27Wayne Rooney's late goal clinches a valuable three points for Manchester UnitedA trium. Getty Images6Give Wayne Rooney a break and Man United can benefitThe 2-1 derby loss to Man City was breathless but against Watford Roo looked stodgy and out of ideas. Yet again, he was another who swapped positions, from defensive midfield to centre-half, and the decision reaped instant rewards. Wright on Schmeichel1996-97: Arsenal 1 Manchester United 2News Group Newspapers Ltd27Ian Wright stam. If they can win at Old Trafford, a top four challenge could be on the cards - defeat and back to being an also-ran beckons. Related ArticlesSHAW NO CERTAINTYGareth Southgate tells Luke Shaw he must start playing for Manchest. But there was also a subtle rivalry developing between Arsenal as a club — and more specifically, Vieira — and Uniteds Ruud van Nistelrooy.