Manchester United v Blackburn Rovers - Peter White's big match preview

WORLD Cup wannabes will be scattered all over the Old Trafford pitch tomorrow when Blackburn Rovers and Manchester United fight it out for top spot in the Premiership.

But nowhere will the spotlight be more sharply focused than on the two number nines - Chris Sutton and Andy Cole.

Both men could claim, in some respects, to have relaunched their careers this season and the rewards have not only been shown in the scoring charts.

They have come in the shape of financial security with long-term contracts signed.

But England recognition, and a place in Glenn Hoddle's squad for France, means as much as any pile of dosh to two players craving for life at the very top.

Sutton clearly believes there is a golden future at Ewood, after committing himself to a new contract through until the year 2003.

"I am only 24 and this was a big decision, because I feel these are crucial years for me," he said.

"This could be for the rest of my career but I am very pleased and glad things have been sorted out.

"Things happened in the past and I haven't always had the happiest times. But that's all water under the bridge now."

Cole too has had his problems with fitness - not to mention his share of criticism, warranted or not.

The United striker said: "Over the past few weeks, the goals have been flowing again and that has made people look differently at my contribution to the team.

"Even when the goals didn't go in as regular as in previous times I have always remained confident of what I have to offer and the contribution I make.

"With a new long-term contract secured, my confidence has never been higher."

As for his critics he has a simple answer.

"People in the media have been constantly trying to undermine my position at United," he said.

"My answer is look in the cabinet since I have been with the club.

"My contract means another five years and I am hungry for success both personally and, most importantly, as a team."

While both are goalscorers, our Carling Opta ratings show the players also bring different qualities to their respective teams. Cole has rediscovered the ability to turn defenders with that electrifying pace and although he has made less runs and dribbles than his rival he has a higher completion rate of 92 per cent.

Sutton's percentage of shots on target is better, however, and the Rovers man is more of an all-round leader of the attack.

He has a slightly higher pass completion rate than the United star and a 36 per cent cross completion rate which is three per cent higher than last season's Premiership average.

Although he too has a turn of pace, Sutton also has great strength and makes many more challenges than Cole.

Hoddle is more aware than anyone of the outstanding candidates he has for the striking places in his squad for France.

No doubt he will be keeping a close eye on tomorrow's game to see just how much Sutton and Cole really want to be there.

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