Man United

Manchester United V Rangers

Tuesday, 14th September – 19:45 GMT
LIVE on Sky Sports 2

UEFA Champions League: Group C

Manchester United

Boasting one European Champion Clubs’ Cup triumph and two UEFA Champions League successes, their most recent coming in the 2007/2008 campaign, Manchester United will attempt to get their European adventure off to a flyer when Sir Alex Ferguson welcomes an old pal of his, Rangers manager Walter Smith, to Old Trafford in a game promised to be hyped up by all corners of the media as the ‘Battle of Britain’ encounter. That somewhat exciting headline couldn’t be any further from the truth, though, when you consider the plight at which the Scottish Premier League has fallen over the years, while Rangers’ money woes and their poor record in England means the Red Devils are worthy favourites to clinch all three points in Tuesday’s clash.

Last season seen United fail to reach the semi-finals of the competition for the first time since 2006, bowing out to Bayern Munich at the last-eight stage of the tournament last term, but after being handed a generous group will be confident of at least getting the ball rolling with an opening victory over Rangers before later, hopefully, progressing into the last-sixteen, the stage of the competition where the men are separated from the boys. And that could be the best way to define this encounter; men against boys, as United stand over the Scottish outfit like giants with the amount of talent and the sheer value of their squad. Wayne Rooney alone is arguably worth more in pounds than the Rangers team combined, although he was absent at the weekend as his team-mates let two significantly importantly points slip through their grasp away at his former employers’ Everton. The Red Devils conceding twice in injury time in a game they seemingly had wrapped up; hardly the pre-Champions League display asked for by manager Ferguson.

United’s form before Tuesday’s clash remains positive nevertheless, boasting an unbeaten start in the Premier League – 2 wins and 2 draws – although the off-field problems of Wayne Rooney could hardly of come at a worse time seeing as United kick off their Champions League campaign on Tuesday needing to begin on a positive note. They should do that with or without Rooney in fairness, although you would think the matter is a foregone conclusion should Rooney, who was reportedly omitted from Ferguson’s squad which travelled to Everton at the weekend through ‘lack of fitness’ but really was left out because he put his own needs before the good of the team, start on Tuesday night, and we reckon he has solid claims to make his United reappearance, with our hunch being Ferguson’s reluctance to throw Rooney into the Lion’s pit at Goodison, seeing as Goodison Park was where Wayne Rooney made both his Premier League début and a name for himself as one of England’s finest youth products in recent years.

With only Spanish outfit Valencia standing out as much of a rival in a lightweight Group C, nothing less than three points and a comfortable scoreline is to be expected from Man Utd. Their record on home soil against Scottish opponents is formidable, having won three of four encounters, beating Celtic twice in the last couple of campaigns, while the Red Devils have lost just one of their last 25 European affairs at Old Trafford, that rare loss coming last season against Besiktas, at a time when progression was assured in another featherweight group.

Rangers

Rangers qualified automatically for this seasons UEFA Champions League by virtue of clinching their second successive SPL title, but the Glasgow based club have never won Europe’s elite club prize and don’t boast particularly strong claims this time around either, with progression into the knock-out’s a feat in itself. In fact, Rangers will be hoping it’s third time lucky as they attempt to be a part of the competition’s last-sixteen which, should they do so, would be their first appearance in the knock-outs since the 2005/2006 campaign. However, first and foremost is their first encounter of the campaign, a trip to Old Trafford where one of England’s finest await them in a game they ideally need to get something from but will face an upward task in doing so.

It shouldn’t be too difficult bettering last season’s performance in Europe, where Rangers accumulated just two points in a realistic group which contained Sevilla, VFB Stuttgart and Romanian newcomers Unirea Urziceni, and yet Rangers’ only noteworthy results came away from home at Stuttgart and Urziceni, where the Old Firm surprisingly earned a share of the spoils in both encounters. Their away form was a great deal better then their form at Ibrox of three straight defeats but that doesn’t mean they’re in with even the slightest of chances of obtaining points from this venture to England against a wounded Man Utd at Old Trafford.

Following United’s slip up at the weekend, Rangers could find themselves up against a wounded animal in the form of the Red Devils, who are lethal and prolific at the best of times but when in the mood to turn a few heads and set the record straight, really do take some stopping. And that’s the task ahead which awaits Walter Smith’s players, to somehow tame this United beast which only Besiktas of Turkey has achieved in 25 atmospheric European nights at the Stadium of Dreams, although even that rare momentary lapse was tarnished by the fact Sir Alex fielded a weakened side. A Rangers side at the best, playing to the best of their ability and at full capacity wouldn’t cope with a United side at half the respective levels, and that’s the daunting prospect for Rangers, knowing that their opponents are far superior than them and nothing less than a fully committed performance from themselves will be enough to even remain competitive.

Although Rangers do have a great deal of winning form behind them, beginning the new SPL season with four straight wins, their most recent success, a 2-1 win away at Hamilton, wasn’t exactly vintage stuff and a similar display from the Scottish champs would see them handsomely beaten in Manchester on Tuesday night. Somehow, and even we aren’t quite sure how they will, Rangers need to raise their game by a considerable margin, as they can ill afford to begin this European campaign like their last, with a thumping defeat which will surely leave Rangers on their knees and begging to put out of their misery. In order to go from strength to strength they need something positive from this game, even if it is a disappointing but spirited defeat. Anything less and you do worry for Scotland’s only European competitors.

Match Prediction: Manchester United to WIN – 1.20 BetFred

The odds aren’t particularly great on a home win here but by the same token the Reds Devils won’t nee to be at their vintage best in order to see off an ordinary Rangers outfit, whom were dreadful in their last Champions League campaign and aren’t fancied to perform a great deal better this time around either.

Seeing as he was omitted from the squad at the weekend, Wayne Rooney is likely to jump straight back into the starting eleven for United’s Group C opener and that’s a deadly sign for Rangers, knowing full well Rooney will be eager to mend a few wrongs when he takes to the fray on Tuesday night. Although, a Rooney-less United should still have far too much ingenuity and class for Rangers anyhow, so anything less a Manchester United win would be a genuine shock.

Soccer-Betting Value Bet: Darren Fletcher Anytime Scorer – 4.30 Boylesports

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.20 BetFred

Draw – 7.00 Bet365

Rangers – 19.00 WilliamHill

Everton V Manchester United

Saturday, 11th September – 12:45 GMT
LIVE on Sky Sports 1
Soccer-Betting Game of the Week

Everton

League Position: 17th
League Form: DLL

The Toffees find themselves in a sticky situation at present, failing to win any of their opening three league games and have only West Ham and Stoke City below them for company. It is, however, still early days and there’s plenty of time for this Everton side, one with bags of potential, to grow into the season and have a big impact just as they did in the second half of last season. Our only concern is they may leave it to late once again, and life in the Premier League doesn’t get any easier for Everton as next up is third placed and unbeaten Manchester United, although the Blues do at least have the advantage of playing on Merseyside, where the atmosphere is likely to be hostile at best as fans prepare to see an old face in Wayne Rooney – An intriguing battle in itself.

This very same fixture was one of the highlights of an otherwise patchy and inconsistent 2009/2010 season for David Moyes and his men, where Everton missed out on Europe despite a late surge. 3-1 the game ended, with the Toffees storming back from a goal down to comprehensively see off the 18-time English league champions, and that is the potential of this Everton side; they have the ability to raise their game in the big clashes, as they did against Arsenal, Chelsea and United in the latter stages of last season, and have proved on several occasions over the years that they can throw a spanner in the works for these ‘bigger clubs’.

However, while Everton may hold all the mental aces because of their 3-1 triumph last term, their form is so poor right now that it all but cancels out that slight advantage, leaving them with only a home crowd for comfort. But even the loyal and passionate support from their fans hasn’t helped them a great deal in recent fixtures with the Red Devils, with Everton’s victory last season the clubs first over the Reds since a 1-0 win back in 2005. Their cause isn’t helped on Saturday as David Moyes has plenty of injury headaches, with the fired up Scot sweating on the fitness of Phil Neville, Jack Rodwell and Louis Saha, with latter perhaps forcing David Moyes to go with Jermain Beckford up front once again seeing as Yakubu is recovering from an illness despite featuring in Jamie Carragher’s testimonial at the weekend.

The form of Jermain Beckford has been particularly eye-catching, although for all the wrong reasons. The former Leeds striker signed for the club during the summer and at the ripe of age of 26, is no longer considered a hot prospect. The magic should be happening right now out on the pitch but it’s not, which has lead to stinging criticism from some corners of the press and even in some sections of Everton fans. We haven’t been impressed with him either and with Yakubu and Saha spending more time at home nowadays than on the pitch, David Moyes may well be forced to go shopping in January if Beckford doesn’t start delivering with goals – He would be an instant hit though were he to bag the winner against fierce rivals Man Utd.

Manchester United

League Position: 3rd
League Form: WDW

Unbeaten in the league since April, Manchester United go in search of their third win of the season on Saturday, in front of the Sky Sports cameras, with revenge at the forefront of their minds against an Everton side which showed them up on their last visit to Merseyside. However, the tide has well and truly turned since then, as at the time of United’s defeat on Merseyside Everton were enjoying a decent run of form, as United are now, and the Red Devils will be mighty difficult to stop on Saturday as they keep up their relentless pace with Chelsea at the top of the table.

Despite a brief slip up down at Craven Cottage, United have made a bright start to the new season and would make further positive strides were they to exact some revenge on a side which got the better of them at Goodison Park last term. Sir Alex Ferguson would openly admit that the last time he took his troops down to Merseyside for an encounter with Everton, they were second best and beaten by the better side, something you don’t often associate with the former champs of England nor the grumpy, stubborn Scot. There is, however, a confident swagger about United following a couple of impressive wins over Newcastle United and West Ham, despite both coming at Old Trafford, and they’ll be hard to stop at this rate especially as Everton haven’t made a particularly bright start themselves.

Manchester United’s claims for all three points have been boosted by several pieces of pleasing news. The first is in the form of Wayne Rooney, who despite being shown up by all the national newspapers over private matters involving his marriage, has found himself back in the goals after scoring United’s opener against West Ham just before the break in a 3-0 rout before opening for England in their 3-1 win in Basel over Switzerland. Secondly, Rio Ferdinand is set to embark upon his first game of the season after recovering from the injury sustained while at the World Cup in South Africa. United conceded two on their last away day out, so Ferdinand’s calming presence at the back is a welcome relief for Sir Alex, who could opt to start with the feisty Paul Scholes in the centre of midfield, with the former England international in scintillating form at present and a player which trives off the feisty encounters – A short price to go into the book on Saturday as well.

It has been nearly three years since Man Utd’s last win at Goodison, but they have all the momentum heading into Saturday’s pulsating affair and justify their odds-on status. Dimitar Berbatov seems to have found a new lease of life, playing with the sort of confidence which seen him earn so many plaudits when at Tottenham. The only slight headache for Ferguson is whether to throw Rooney into the Lion’s pit, as the former Evertonian doesn’t have the best of repour with the Everton faithful and is certain to get some uncomfortable stick throughout the afternoon. But can Fergie really afford to leave his most potent weapon on the bench?

Match Prediction: Manchester United to WIN – 1.91 Bet365

I’m really looking forward to this clash between an Everton side desperate to get their season under way following three games without a win and a United team just as desperate to stay in touch with runaway leaders Chelsea. There shouldn’t be an ounce of blood spared in this typically feisty encounter, so tighten your seatbelts as this is likely to be a bumpy ride, especially if your name is Wayne Rooney.

Enough with the hype, more down to business and we’ve tipped United to come out on top as Everton’s season goes from bad to worse. The Toffees have opened with two defeats and a draw and will be deprived of any confidence right now, whereas United, on the back of an impressive start to the campaign which has seen them score eight goals and collect seven points from a possible nine, are oozing at the seem with confidence and self-belief and should really end a run of two visits to Goodison without a win.

Soccer-Betting Value Tip: Wayne Rooney To Receive a Card – 3.50 SkyBet

The former Everton starlet is going to receive a hot reception at Goodison on Saturday and it will be interesting to see how he copes with all the limelight, pressure and persistent stick from the stands. Despite a thick exterior, Rooney is a fragile sort right now following allegations about his private life and his marriage seemingly on the rocks, and United’s No. 9 may well lose his head on Merseyside. He’s 3.50 to receive a card – A steal if you ask me!

Match Odds:

Everton – 4.50 SkyBet
Draw – 3.50 Boylesports
Manchester United – 1.91 Bet365

Manchester United V Newcastle United

Monday, 16th August – 20:00 GMT
LIVE on Sky Sports 1

Manchester United

The Red Devils will be targeting a record 19th league title this season but must begin the campaign against an old foe in the form of Newcastle United. The kinds of Manchester were pipped to the 2009/2010 Premier League title by Chelsea last season, in a race which went right down to the wire with Chelsea snatching the crown by a single point. So it was fine margins which ultimately cost the Reds last season, thus proving that not winning those so called ‘easy fixtures’ does come back to haunt you. Sir Alex Ferguson, whom has guided the club to 11 of the 18 league titles Man Utd own, will be driving that home to his players in Monday night’s live encounter despite having the utmost respect for a club which back at their peak was challenging United for major honours.

Games such as these always excite the Old Trafford faithful and it’s going to be another expected sell-out on Monday in the seasons first LIVE Monday night clashes on Sky Sports this season. There is a little recent irony in this fixture in that two seasons ago, Newcastle’s last stint in the Premier League before suffering their first ever relegation from the Premiership, United were drawn against the same exact opponent at Old Trafford for the first game of the season. It wasn’t, though, on a Monday but it’s poignant nevertheless as United dropped points in that encounter when drawing 1-1. As last season shown, United can ill-afford to drop many points this season and that’s certainly the case when it comes to fixtures at their world famous Old Trafford stadium.

Its been another quiet stint in the transfer window for Fergie, whose only signings during pre-season were Chris Smalling (Defender) from Fulham and the talented and very exciting Mexican forward Javier Hernandez. The latter scored twice for his country at the FIFA World Cup in the summer as well as United’s second in the 3-1 Community Shielf victory over Chelsea, helping his team-mates to clinch their first piece of silverware of the season in just his first competitive game for the club. But despite the endless amount of potential of United’s new Mexican starlet, it is unlikely that Hernandez will start against Newcastle on Monday with preference going to Wayne Rooney & Dimitar Berbatov. The latter in particular will be sweating far more now that Hernandez has lit up Manchester and unless he proves he’s worth the £30 million the club paid for him, Berbatov may well find himself dropping down the pecking order. Another big name which won’t play any part on Monday is Rio Ferdinand who misses out through yet another injury. It could mean Chris Smalling be handed his United début.

Newcastle United

In any other situation, if this was any other club, a trip to Old Trafford to take on one of the most successful English team in recent years would be a daunting experience but for Newcastle they’ll be chomping at the bit to get back to Premiership action after spending the previous year down at Championship level. Fans and players alike are just so delighted to be back in the Premier League that they couldn’t care less who they were handed on match day 1, but nothing less than a professional and committed performance from Chris Hughton’s players will be punished by a usually ruthless Manchester United and we only hope the Magpies rise to the occasion.

Newcastle found the Championship a piece of cask last season, romping to the title when winning 30 of their 46 league fixtures and finishing a convincing 11 points above the runners-up, West Brom. They were in cruise control for the most part, losing just four league games all season as well as finishing the season in style by going 17 games unbeaten. To say Newcastle were in a confident and buoyant throughout last season would be an understatement as they really did find life a breeze in the Championship, but the Premiership is a different kettle of fish, a league where mistakes are just about always punished and anything less than a 100% collective effort will see your side despatched with authority.

Whether it is because of a lack of funds we don’t know, but we are shocked to see how quiet Newcastle have been in the transfer market during pre-season, just as quiet as their match day opponents and that’s saying something. Since clinching the 2009/2010 Championship crown, Chris Hughton has brought in just three players ahead of a testing Premier League campaign. Even more baffling was that all three are defenders, with James Perch, Dan Gosling and Sol Campbell all joining the Tyneside outfit over the summer. The latter won’t feature on Monday because of a lack of fitness, while Dan Gosling won’t play until at least December as he recovers from the knee injury sustained when at Everton last season. And with Steven Taylor out with a shoulder injury, it could mean James Perch being the first of the three newbies to make his  début in Newcastle’s first outing of the season, which considering he’s spent his entire career up till now at Championship grade, is alarming. Forward Andy Carroll, who top-scored with 17 goals for the club last season, is also a doubt after picking up a back injury in pre-season.

We have our concerns with Newcastle ahead of their trip to Manchester, with their defence in particular looking make-shift and weak. With no Steven Taylor or Danny Simpson, it means two defenders who haven’t played a whole lot of Premiership football in their careers so far, some possibly having none. This is a league where experience counts for a lot and unless you have the defensive awareness and composure, as well as all the natural components which make any defender one of Premiership quality, there’s a distinct possibility of being found wanting especially against forwards of United’s calibre which are likely to run Newcastle’s defence ragged.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.25 BetFred

Because of Newcastle’s defensive frailties at the moment, a huge shift is needed from their midfield in order to stand any realistic chance of leaving Old Trafford with something to show for their efforts. But even their midfield looks exposed on paper, with Kevin Nolan the only exception seeing as he was a workhorse in the Bolton team a few seasons ago. But Danny Guthrie and Joey Barton were both part of the Newcastle team which was relegated two seasons ago and unless they’ve learned some new tricks, and some harsh lessons, we’re worried about their inadequacies. Jonas Gutierrez will be their main source of creativity out on the wing, using his blistering pace to get past the United full-backs before whipping in a wide range of crosses. Now that’s a worthwhile tactic seeing as Hughton has any number of forward players which can head the ball. But we don’t really see where or how they will break down a well organised United defence on the ground, so we’re naturally concerned about their chances.

If United’s big guns turn up and perform then we only see one winner. Unlike Newcastle, Alex Ferguson has any number of players with the vision and guile to get in behind an inexperience Premiership defence of Newcastle United. United also have two players desperate to get some noteworthy form under their belts in Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov, who are surely licking their lips at the prospect of bagging a few in this fixture. Rooney endured a miserable World Cup campaign, as well as a poor outing for England in midweek against Hungary, while Berbatov has yet to reach the heights his £30mil price tag suggested he would. But with a tidy defence, a midfield with stability as well as creativity, and an offence to die for, we see nothing less than a comfortable home win for Manchester United.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.25 BetFred
Draw – 6.00 SkyBet
Newcastle United – 15.00 Coral

Soccer-Betting Value Bet: Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov Both to Score – 3.75 SkyBet

 Manchester United V Stoke City

Sunday, 9th May – 16:00 (GMT)

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd
Recent Form: LDWWW

‘Sitting, waiting, wishing’ a song sung by artist Jack Johnson, which summarises Manchester United’s current predicament up perfectly, as Sir Alex sits and waits for a Wigan miracle to land his way at Stamford Bridge. It looks as though United won’t be winning a record fourth Premier League crown in a row, what would have been their 19th first division title overall, but at least United have done their bit by taking this intriguing battle for the championship right down to the wire, piling heaps of pressure onto Chelsea in the process ahead of the final set of Premiership fixture on Sunday. But for the very first time in three years, Alex Ferguson doesn’t look like he will be getting his own way as far as the league title is concerned.

Nani was often overshadowed by Ronaldo last season, mainly because he was rubbish if truth be told, but this season the young Portuguese winger really has come of age, claiming the April Player of the Month for his industrious efforts for the Red Devils last month. It was also his goal, the one and only goal at the Stadium of Light, which ensured this intense race for the title went down to the final day of the season. It does, though, still leave United a point short of the Blues meaning the Reds of Manchester need a huge favour from Wigan Athletic at Stamford Bridge in order for United to be triumphant this Sunday.

It seems a big ask now for United to clinch the Premier League title from Chelsea’s grasp, but as everyone kindly keeps reminding us,‘This is football, and stranger things have happened’. It quotes like that which will keep the spirit in the Manchester United dressing room high, as let’s not forget Ferguson still needs to guide United to a win on Sunday just to be in without a shout. Where United to slip up at home to Stoke, a team who recently lost 7-0 at Chelsea, United would instantly forfeit any slim chance they had of winning the crown.

With Man Utd knowing they must win at Old Trafford in front of an obvious sell-out crowd, victory should be a certainty, surely? Only two sides have beaten the Red Devils at home this season, both of those were stiff opposition, while Sunderland remain the only team to have earned a draw there, so Stoke really don’t stand much of a chance of halting United’s probable in vein sprint to the title. Nevertheless, a professional display is needed from United and we shouldn’t also discount the fact that whenever a goal goes in for United, it will reverberate around Stamford Bridge and that could play a significant part in Chelsea perhaps slipping up against Wigan. Like everyone keeps saying, ‘Anything can happen in football’.

Stoke City

League Position: 13th
Recent Form: WDLLD

Tony Pulis will have suffered nightmares after Stoke’s last encounter with a title contenders ended in Stoke receiving their heaviest ever defeat in the Premier League – Chelsea inflicting a 7-0 loss on the Potters. So, a visit to Manchester’s Stadium of Dreams is far from ideal but you could view it as the footballing Gods giving Stoke one final chance to redeem themselves, show the world that heavy defeats simply aren’t them.

It’s been another impressive Premier League season from Stoke City, with Tony Pulis working yet more magic in keeping a pretty average looking Stoke squad up without any fuss or scares. In fact Pulis has done such a good job that no-one really expects the Potters to even be involved in any relegation scraps. However, with rumours of dressing rooms busts ups leaking through to the media, the summer months could well see several depart as Tony Pulis looks to clear the club of egocentrics and self minded individuals. If ever there was a manager which demanded top-notch team spirit, that camaraderie, it’s Pulis and it will be interesting to see the fresh faces he introduces to the club ahead of next season.

Now, however, Stoke have to play their part in a potentially decisive encounter, as the Potters make their way to Old Trafford aiming to thwart Manchester United’s bid for a fourth successive Premier League crown. If Stoke can somehow avoid defeat in Manchester, they will have single handily scuppered any remaining chance of United lifting the trophy aloft, and we’re certain the Stoke players will celebrate such a feat… behind closed doors of course, as no-one celebrates in front of an irate Ferguson.

If Stoke’s most recent fixture with one of the so called ‘Big Four’ teams is anything to go by, The Potters could be in for a long afternoon. Memories of their 7-0 drubbing at the hands of Chelsea will start to resurface along the way to Old Trafford, a game where Stoke were honestly at their very worst, arguably the poorest team display we’ve seen from them. Their usual organised and robust set up simply wasn’t there, or went missing, either way it wasn’t apparent, while they rarely broke into the final third of the pitch. Stoke will need to have their wits about them at Old Trafford, sprint out of the blocks and ensure everyone knows their specific role. Stoke are a well drilled machine on their day, arguably the most difficult side in the Premiership to break down on their day, but if a cog gets loose then they’re left wide open, as was the case against Chelsea. It’s Tony Pulis’ job to ensure that doesn’t happen in Manchester.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.13 Bet365

Alex Ferguson has been in this position on more than one occasion, and so, a slip up from his United players really would be a major shock. Against a Stoke City team which has lost their edge, their sharpness and their desire to keep their ‘tough to beat’ status, they really shouldn’t encounter too many problems despatching of the Potters. However, if United want all three points they will need to turn up and put in a performance worthy of a victory. Stoke won’t roll over, despite how bad their 7-0 drubbing away at Chelsea looks just a few weeks ago. In fact, United really do need to storm out of the blocks, grab an early goal so Chelsea then know United are doing their bit, now Chelsea must do the same. Keep piling the pressure on and you never know, Chelsea may just slip up.

Match Odds

Manchester United – 1.13 Bet365
Draw – 9.50 Boylesports
Stoke City – 19.00 Expekt

Football-Betting.co.uk Pick: Manchester United to be WINNING after 15 minutes – 3.60 SportingBet

Sunderland V Manchester United

Sunday, 2nd April – 15:00 (GMT)
TV Coverage: Sky Sports 1

Sunderland

League Position: 10th
Recent Form: LWLWW

Steve Bruce, one of several great defenders to have played at Man Utd under Sir Alex Ferguson, is a favourite with the United faithful but that love could quickly turn into hate should he pick up further points against the Red Devils. Sunderland pushed Man Utd mighty close in the reverse meeting at Old Trafford back in October in a game they should of won but eventually finished in a 2-2 draw. A similar scoreline on Saturday and Bruce’s cult hero status at Man Utd could rapidly diminish as it could have devastating consequences on United’s bid to land their fourth successive league crown.

The Sunderland fans won’t care one bit if Sunderland’s efforts thwart their championship bid on Sunday. In fact, we reckon the Sunderland fans would celebrate even harder should their team snatch yet more points off Manchester United this Sunday. The Black Cats drews 2-2 back at Old Trafford in a match Sunderland really should have won were it not for a late Anton Ferdinand Own Goal. Sunderland fans were so close to celebrating an historic victory – A win at Old Trafford, and because of their near miss earlier in the season, the fans will be eager to go even closer back on home soil at a venue where Sunderland have been imperious for most of the season.

9-7-2: That’s Sunderland’s record at The Stadium of Light this season. It’s pretty damn impressive if you ask me for a club which, while it may have had a summer revamp, survived by the skin of their teeth last season. This season however, Sunderland have been a different kettle of fish especially at home and they’ll look to push another one of England’s elite teams very close once more. After all, only Chelsea of the so called ‘Big Four’ have won at The Stadium of Light this season, as both Arsenal (1-0) and Liverpool (1-0) suffered bitter tasting defeats at the hands of the Tyneside club. Moreover, Sunderland’s form at home heading into this potentially make or break fixture for their opponents is extremely healthy; Sunderland haven’t lost at home in 2010 and are one win away from making it four wins from four in front of the Sunderland faithful.

Steve Bruce is a dedicated, professional manager and he will show no love lost to his former employer. He will demand a big performance from his players, a quick start with plenty of energy and tonnes of enthusiasm as his Sunderland players look to stamp their say on this two-way title race. If you’re looking for a Sunderland hero this Sunday then look no further than in the direction of one Darren Bent. Not only did Bent open the scoring when the two sides last met at Old Trafford in that famous 2-2 draw, but Bent has also scored against the remaining ‘Big Four’ teams on home soil this season, scoring against Chelsea in a 3-1 loss, and then scoring the one and only goal, the winner, against both Arsenal and Liverpool. From a United perspective, Bent could be the Grim Reaper in disguise.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd
Recent Form: WLDWW
Motive: Championship

You think they’re down and they bounce straight back up. Is it ever wise to write Manchester United, the 18-time winners of the English top-flight, off? They appeared down and out at one stage but have somehow bounced back stronger than ever, even without their talismanic forward, Wayne Rooney. This weekend could potential make or break for good United’s title bid though as they make a pretty daunting trip up to Tyneside where a tricky Sunderland team await them in a game United just can’t afford to drop a single point in. It really is pressure stuff but what other team would you want in this position than that of Manchester United led by the legend himself, Sir Alex Ferguson.

Two huge wins over two of the league’s most improved teams has catapulted the Red Devils right back into this title mixer. Victories over Manchester City (0-1) and Tottenham Hotspur (3-1) came in nervy fashion but they were six crucial points United could not of done without as the gap separating them from Chelsea at the top of the Barclay’s Premier League table is now just a single point. However, with Chelsea clashing with Liverpool just a few hours earlier, United could be in the perfect position to pounce on any Chelsea mistakes and should Chelsea lose at Anfield, Manchester United could end the weekend back on top of the Premier League and in full control of their destiny heading into the final set of fixtures in seven days time.

The pressure is really on and a man they really could of done with his services is Wayne Rooney but he unfortunately doesn’t look as though he will play any part at The Stadium of Light. Fergie rated Rooney’s chances of making the Sunderland cut as an ‘outside chance’ but that could mean literally anything. We don’t think they’ll struggle enormously without him from an attacking perspective as United should have the talent, the players with vast amounts of experience and know-how to unlock a pretty suspect Sunderland defence. Our concerns is whether or not the likes of Nani, Valencia and Berbatov will take their chances when they do arise, as give Darren Bent a whiff at the other end and he will certainly punish you.

Nani was the star of the show in United’s 3-1 win over Tottenham last weekend, scoring United’s second and deciding goal with a sublime chip over a despairing Gomes. Nani was instrumental in United picking up three huge points and really has grown of age in the second half of the season after Fergie unleashed the former Portuguese flop from the bench. The winger appears to have found a new lease of life, some new found optimism as he’s beginning to play like a star in the making. Nani is coming good at just the right time for United and with this current United crop packed with experience but lacking in youthful enthusiasm and energy, Nani’s presence gives opposing defenders something to really think about while his goals are proving so crucial as Berbatov continues to frustrate after finally getting a run in the team at Rooney’s injury expense.

Manchester United’s Recent Away Form: DLWWDW

Edwin Van Der Saar hasn’t conceded a goal away from home in four games (360 minutes).

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.40 Bet365

We’re sure Sunderland will have their fair share of neutral support this Sunday, none more so than from the onlooking Chelsea fans. But at the business end of the season, rarely do United slip up and after seeing their hopes for a fourth consecutive title go from impossible to a genuine possibility, there is no way Sir Alex will let his players come off the boil now and ruin their lifeline. The United dressing room will be in buoyant mood after two hard fought wins over Man City and Tottenham while the confidence within camp should be extremely healthy as well, so we expect another scintillating display from the reigning Champions as they continue to defend their crown to the bitter end.

Remember: Were Man Utd to lose at Sunderland and Chelsea to win earlier in the day, Chelsea would win the Premier League with a set of fixtures to spare.

Match Odds

Sunderland – 9.50 BetFred
Draw – 4.80 Boylesports
Manchester United – 1.40 Bet365

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Pick: Darrent Bent FGS – 8.50 PaddyPower
Also: Nani Anytime Scorer – 3.75 SkyBet

Manchester United V Tottenham Hotspur

Saturday, 24^th April – 12:45 (GMT)

TV Coverage: Sky Sports 1

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWLDW

If there is such a thing as a ‘footballing God’ then he was surely looking down on Manchester United last Saturday in what could only be described as the perfect weekend for Alex Ferguson. To win the Manchester Derby against a team which has been winding you up all season is one thing, but to have Chelsea lose just hours later will have left Alex grinning all weekend as this title race takes yet another twist.

Manchester United are well renowned for finishing seasons on a high, like a steam train, and after a miraculous turn of evens seven days ago, they will fancy their chances ending this campaign on a similar high note, with the Premier League aloft hopefully. However, if they wish to land the league crown for the fourth year running, becoming the first English side in the history of the game to have won the top-flight title four consecutive seasons, they’ll need to finish the season in a flawless manner as while they were gifted the best possible weekend, the Red Devils are still playing catch up with Chelsea and still require another slip up from the Blues.

For Chelsea to slip up, United need to pile some pressure onto Carlo Ancelotti and his men by winning every single game from now until the end of the season. Victory on Saturday against a side which only recently recorded a sensational 2-1 win over Chelsea would certainly do some damage to the confidence of the Chelsea camp, especially as the league leaders will be without their influential captain for Sunday’s home encounter with Stoke City. Fergie’s United must do their bit first though, and against an in form Tottenham team, that could be easier said than done. United haven’t been playing at well of late and will need to raise their game several knots if they are to overhaul Spurs in the weekend’s early kick-off, although the return of Wayne Rooney, who should be close to full fitness once again after playing a substantial part in their 1-0 win at Man City last Saturday, means United should go close to all three points despite the class of their match day opponent.

To say this is a big game for United would be the seasons biggest understatement as this fixture is colossal, for both teams we must add. However, it’s rare that you see the might of Manchester United flapping in the big game occasions and we don’t see them fluffing their lines on Saturday. It’s an early kick-off though, so United will need a bright and early start. The last time United were involved in an early kick-off it was against Everton where they lost 3-1 at Goodison Park. Fergie’s Reds were poor that day, well below par, but with the title now back within touching distance, there shouldn’t be any complacency from a team which always come good in the title run-in, it’s almost a Premiership fact!

Tottenham Hotspur

League Position: 4th

Recent Form: WWLWW

Tottenham will set out on the road to Old Trafford to complete an outrageous hat-trick of wins when they take on title chasing Manchester United at the world famous Old Trafford stadium. Harry Redknapp’s Spurs head into a usually daunting fixture with no fear whatsoever after claiming the scalps of both Arsenal and Chelsea within the space of four days. We doubt you’ll see Tottenham fans head to Old Trafford with so much confidence and optimism as they will on Saturday for quite some time, but will their new found belief that Tottenham are no amongst England’s elite equate into another winning result?

Wins over Arsenal and Chelsea last week weren’t just for bragging rights, and believe me Tottenham fans were certainly boasting about their recent brace of success story’s, they were important and oh so necessary as they kept Tottenham firmly in Champions League contention. In fact, the six points from two seemingly tough fixtures took Tottenham into fourth position and in control of their Champions League destiny with just a handful of games left to play.

It’s all good and well beating the big boys at home but beating them on their own turf is where the bragging rights really are and Tottenham haven’t even got close to beating one of the league’s elite sides this season, losing at Arsenal (3-0), Chelsea (3-0) and Liverpool (2-0) all without scoring. Of course, we’re not devaluing their recent wins over Chelsea and Arsenal as Tottenham were scintillating in both, but it’s easier to to pull out the big displays when you have 40 off thousands cheering you forward. Doing the exact same when you’ve got 60 thousand cheering the other way is a different kettle of fish and it’s something Tottenham haven’t dealt with at all well this season.

While Tottenham’s exploits against the ‘Big Four’ haven’t been up to scratch on the road, Tottenham’s pair of terrific displays recently against Arsenal and Chelsea mean Spurs can no longer be underestimated and merit the utmost respect. They are arguably enjoying their best ever spell in the Premiership having won seven of their last eight league games, while they have a left-back, or left-midfield, he can play either exceptionally well, on top of his game in Gareth Bale. The Welsh international has been in scintillating form for Spurs and almost single handily destroyed both Arsenal and Chelsea scoring a goal in both encounters, the winner in both as it happens. His sheer pace enables him to bomb past the full-back while the quality of his delivery has improved greatly. He’ll be gunning for yet more personal glory when he aims for the third successive game on Saturday, although he’d rather miss out on the goal if it meant Tottenham walked away with all the spoils.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.50 BetFred

Tottenham have quickly become the side no-one wants to play and unfortunately for Manchester United, they’re the team that has to not only halt the Spurs express but beat them as they continue to press Chelsea for top spot. Tottenham, however, need the points just as badly for their Champions League cause. Only a win will do for both sides, although for United a draw isn’t a result they can afford to contemplate whereas Tottenham might get away with a point. That just about says it in all in terms of who’s under the mores pressure to attain the victory in a clash which will attract it’s fair amount of viewers.

Tottenham shouldn’t be underestimated after their recent exploits, but their record away from home against the Big Four this season isn’t great, in fact it’s terrible having lost at Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool and are on the verge of completing an unwanted set of defeats. If Tottenham are honest, they would settle for a point as very few walk away from Old Trafford with a win. However, if they approach this fixture in that frame of mind then Manchester United will punish them severely. We don’t expect Tottenham to defend for large periods in a bid to get the point, but we do feel they could be outdone by a United side in a rampant mood after their Derby success last Saturday.

We can’t ignore United after the weekend they had seven days ago, so our vote goes in the direction of Manchester United to mount more pressure on league leaders Chelsea by temporarily dethroning the Blues with a win at home to Tottenham Hotspur. Either way, it should be a thoroughly entertaining fixture.

Match Odds

Manchester United – 1.50 BetFred

Draw – 4.50 Bet365

Tottenham Hotspur – 8.00 Coral

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Wayne Rooney FGS – 4.00 SkyBet

Manchester City V Manchester United

Saturday, 17^th April – 12:45 (GMT)

- Manchester Derby –

TV Coverage: Sky Sports 1

Manchester City

League Position: 4th

Recent Form: WLWWW

For City, a team chasing the Champions League dream, every game from now on will be considered ‘Big’. They don’t come any bigger though than the Manchester Derby and it’s the Blues side of Manchester that shouldn’t be short of an incentive or two. After all, in three clashes with the Reds already this season City have ended up on the losing side on two occasions, with one of those defeats being inflicted upon them in the Carling semi-final. A dose of revenge will be on the City menu you would feel but quite whether they can dish it out to the reigning league champions is question open to debate.

Of the two defeats it will have been the Carling Cup loss that would have hurt the City camp more but unlike some City have bounced back with aplomb. Since the turn of the year, City have won 8 of their 14 league fixtures, while some of their mishap results haven’t come at The City of Manchester. The Blues have been sublime at home and have won 9 of their last 11 home games in the league. They’ve also suffered just the one solitary defeat in Manchester this season, although that would be two if you include their 4-3 defeat at Old Trafford way back in September. Everton, though, remain the only Premiership team to have won on Man City soil all season in all competitions.

With tonnes of money spent of relatively big names over the summer, some of them not the wisest of signings, you could hardly say Manchester City were an ideal business model. However, City have come good at the business end of the season and have struck up a decent run of form having won four of their last five league fixtures, while victory over Manchester United would equal City’s previous longest winning streak of four games. While their opponent may make achieving that difficult, City’s home form should more than account for City’s lack of Premiership pedigree while Roberto Mancini doesn’t have to contend with any injuries to key players unlike his opposite number does with Wayne Rooney. In fact, Mancini has arguably the Premiership’s in form player right now at his disposal, fresh and raring to go in Carlos Tevez. The Argentine just can’t stop scoring of late and has had a scoring addiction all season. The little ‘Argie’ scored twice on Sunday in City’s 5-1 romp of Birmingham City, his sixth in three games, while he’s been amply assisted by the now internationally retired Emmanuel Adebayor, who also scored twice on Sunday and is aiming to score his third successive brace on Saturday.

Manchester City have hit top gear and have shown little signs of relenting. Within the space of a fortnight they’ve notched up three successive league wins scoring a quite sublime 14 whilst conceding just 2. Not only have they found chances easy to come by but they’ve now got quality up front to bang them home on a regular basis. City backers should no longer be concerned with City’s wasteful attitude in front of goal so long as Adebayor and Tevez are strutting their stuff in front of goal. The pair have been on-fire of late, while Craig Bellamy also deserves a mention as he’s been one of the main creators for Adebayor and Tevez while he was also the player who scored twice at Old Trafford earlier in the season. So, what we have here is a host of City players with two goal or more habits. Surely one of them won’t bag another brace against the mighty Manchester United?

Emmanuel Adebayor to Score a Brace – 11.00 WilliamHill

Carlos Tevez to Score a Brace – 9.00 SkyBet

Craig Bellamy to Score a Brace – 26.00 BlueSquare

Manchester City’s Home Record: 11-4-1

Home Form: WDLWW

Leading Goalscorer: Carlos Tevez, 22 Goals.

Manchester City Fact: Mancini’s Blues have only failed on two occasions to score at home in the league this season, of which both occasions where against teams from Merseyside in Everton & Liverpool. They’ve put four past Arsenal and two past Chelsea at The City of Manchester stadium earlier in the campaign.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWWLD

Sir Alex Ferguson, a man who has guided Manchester United to 11 league titles during his reign as United manager, has already conceded the title is now beyond them despite them having four more fixtures elft to play and Chelsea having to face both Liverpool and Tottenham before the season is out. Moreover, the Scot claimed Chelsea’s fixture with Bolton on Tuesday night was easy. A low blow for all the Bolton fans but is it an early indication that Sir Alex is beginning to lose the plot or is the masterful Ferguson back to his old tricks? Well, if he is then it certainly didn’t have the desired effect this time around as Chelsea strolled to victory on Tuesday night. That now leaves United having to win every single game while even a draw against their bitter, local rivals cannot even be contemplated.

It’s nail-biting stuff down at Old Trafford, although, it’s made a whole lot worse by the fact they need results elsewhere to go their way. They aren’t out of the running yet mind, as like we said, Chelsea still have to play two tough fixtures before the season draws to a close. However, the fact the league isn’t in United’s hands any more is a huge disappointment, although they only have themselves to blame. They gave the initiative away in that 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Old Trafford a fortnight ago, while the 0-0 draw at Blackburn last weekend certainly didn’t help their cause. In fairness, it leaves Manchester United needing a minor miracle to land their fourth successive league crown and surpass Liverpool’s tally of 18 league titles. Fergie was desperate to knock Liverpool off their perch. He said so last year. So it’s understandable that Fergie has had to resort to some old, dirty mind games in order to divert pressure elsewhere, to a specific place in London in particular.

Enough with all the mind game rubbish as all that mental maths will be in vein should United come a cropper and drop more points for the third successive occasion. The Reds have now gone two league games without a win, while in between them was a Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich. The notable occurrence? Wayne Rooney wasn’t involved in any of those games. However, the man with the pressure of a nation upon his shoulders, Wayne Rooney, should make his return for the Manchester Derby after being rested last weekend as Man Utd could only conjure a 0-0 draw with Blackburn. That’s a huge boost for the United camp as they’ve struggled something rotten without him. There’s been a distinct lack of creativity, no forward spark of movement from Berbatov or Mecheda, while the pair of them have strived to fluff every half-decent opportunity that does come their way. Rooney, however, just doesn’t know how to miss, especially against Man City. Rooney has scored in two of the three meetings with Man City this season and will be eager to stick in a few more at The City of Manchester stadium, while it was the main man himself, Wayne Rooney, who scored United’s winner their last season, so will lightening strike twice?

The problem with a Manchester United bet is the team have suffered too many heart wrenching results in such a short space of time. Not only have their dreams of making a third successive Champions League final gone down the pan thanks to Arjen Robben but their title aspirations are also hanging by the balance. It’s now got to the point where one more defeat, or even a draw for that matter, and United can rule themselves out of a 19^th league crown. Each and every one of their remaining four fixtures are must win affairs, with this trip across Manchester included. That’s some immense pressure going onto the United shoulders and when you consider that the team isn’t taking any form or packing any positive momentum, it’s sound quite an asking to get a result a venue where the locals have only lost once all season.

Manchester United Away Record: 9-3-5

Away Form: DLWWD

Leading Goalscorer: Wayne Rooney, 26 Goals.

Manchester United Fact: Their 0-0 draw at Blackburn on Sunday afternoon was the first time the Red Devils had failed to score in an away fixture in the Premier League since the middle of December. They have, however, failed to score in nearly a third of their away games this season.

Match Prediction: Manchester City to WIN – 2.88 VCbet

With Rooney likely to be back in the United fold, some will jump on the United boat on Saturday. We, however, feel Rooney’s return could be too soon and too much of an anti-climax, much like his return was against Bayern Munich a fortnight ago, and we all remember what happened there.

City have been nothing short of sensational in their recent league encounters, carving open defences and scoring goals for fun and in bountiful supply. The team is beginning to look like a well oiled machine with every player doing their respective job in a satisfactory manner. Their defending has improved, although it’s far from impenetrable, while it’s difficult to envisage any team halting City’s forward momentum right now. They took a while to really get going on Sunday against Birmingham but when they did, they were ruthless and cut-throat. Now Birmingham have one of the leanest defences in the league so to score five against them takes some doing, while it was only a month or so ago that City were humbling the current league leaders and United’s closest rivals for the title, Chelsea. City humiliated Chelsea at The Bridge by winning 4-2. City proved there and then that they could raise their game for the big occasion in case Sir Alex didn’t already know after pushing United close on three other occasions already this season.

We don’t think City will roll Man Utd over like they did with Arsenal earlier in the season and like they did with Chelsea in February. With tensions running high and so much at stake for both teams, we feel this Manchester Derby could be a real corker. We expect mistakes from both teams and that could prove decisive considering two of the league’s most prolific forwards will be on the same pitch. This could turn into a ‘who scores more’ type of encounter, especially if the first game at Old Trafford was anything to go by. Should this be the case then we would fancy City to overpower what has been a toothless United in recent outings.

Match Odds

Manchester City – 2.88 VCbet

Draw – 3.50 bWin

Manchester United – 2.50 Bet365

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Carlos Tevez Anytime Scorer – 2.88 Coral

Blackburn Rovers V Manchester United

Sunday, 11^th April – 13:30 GMT

Blackburn Rovers

League Position: 11th

Recent Form: LDDWD 

Blackburn have been known to rustle a few feathers in the Premiership, and should they land a famous victory on Sunday, Rovers could cause quite a stir and give this race for the title a good-old proper stir up. However, Blackburn haven’t beaten the reigning English champions in their last seven attempts, three of those were at Ewood Park, and can only seek inspiration from their 4-3 win way back in 2006. We suppose that isn’t totally true as Blackburn do boast an unbeaten record against ‘Big Four’ opposition at Ewood Park this season having held both Chelsea & Liverpool to draws at Ewood Park, while there are plenty of other reasons why Blackburn’s corner is looking a lot rosier this time around.

As Manchester United travel down to Lancashire trying to notch up some vital points in a bid to defend their league crown, Blackburn have their own defending to do, defending their six match unbeaten run at Ewood Park from distinction. The Red Devils have beaten Blackburn on two of their previous three visits so it’s a fair assumption that Blackburn could be on the verge of relinquishing their sublime run of form on home soil. Then again, it was only three weeks ago that Rovers were frustrating United’s main challenger for the league in Chelsea. Blackburn defied the odds that day to earn a well earned point against table topping Chelsea, while Blackburn are big odds and somewhat unfancied ahead of this weekend clash with yet another side honing in on the league title, so will it be a case of Deja-Vu for Rovers?

Blackburn fans will be well aware of Manchester United’s recent misfortunes though, and while the draw would represent a decent outcome, they will look upon Sunday’s fixture as a golden opportunity to register a rare win over a side which has enjoyed plenty of wins over them down the years. It’s been four years since Blackburn last beat Man Utd at home in the league, while even back then it was considered a massive shock. Victory on Sunday, despite their opponents being under the weather at the moment, would cause similar ripples of stunned silence and shock should they overhaul the English champions in front of what should be a rousing Blackburn support.

The confidence within the Blackburn camp should be sky-high you would feel as not since their 3-1 defeat at Tottenham have they lost in the league – four games without loss in the Premiership. Their two game unbeaten run on the road will also enhance team morale as Blackburn has a dire away record before picking up four points at Burnley and Portsmouth. It should be noted that Blackburn still aren’t overpowering teams with goals but have been more than making up for their loss in goals with some resolute defending. In their last four games (2 at home, 2 away) Rovers have only scored four goals but have shipped just two in return and haven’t conceded in the league for 230 minutes. Granted it’s a run built upon two games with teams down near the foot of the table but it’s a streak which will install plenty of confidence into the Blackburn players and it’s one run, aided by many other positive factors, which make Blackburn a STONKING good bet this weekend!

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWWWL

Alex Ferguson, now a gambler it would seem, takes a deflated squad of Red Devils to Ewood Park this Sunday knowing only a win will do at a venue where neither Chelsea nor Liverpool have won at this season, which puts it into perspective the task at hand for United. It’s a task which is made even more daunting by the fact Wayne Rooney is a huge doubt after aggravating his ankle during Man Utd’s 3-2 loss to Bayern Munich on Wednesday on a night where United’s Champions League dreams were dashed. Unitedhaven’t won the last three league titles without showing bags of fight though, so surely United remain a good bet to bounce back immediately with a win at the weekend? 

Quite how Manchester United were knocked out on Wednesday is unbelievable. Their opponents were a Bayern Munich side which didn’t turn up until half-time, while United stormed out of the starting blocks and raced into a 3-0 lead. It looked plain sailing from then on, perhaps even Rooney could get a needed rest bite such was the comfortabilty of United’s situation, but Ivica Olic’s strike just before the break, followed by Rafael’s rash sending off in second period, meant United were on the ropes and were duly given a knock-out blow by a former rival of theirs, Arjen Robben. It was a goal worthy of winning any two-legged tie, but that will be of little consolation to both the United fans and players as for the first time in five seasons, England don’t have anyone representing them in the Champions League semi-finals.

Fergie needs to somehow lift his players after that crushing defeat. United didn’t play bad though, in fact they were brilliant in the first 40 minutes and should of wrapped the game up with a good four or five goals before half-time. They were dominant, however, costly little mistakes were just that; costly. We’re sure some of the United players, Rafael especially, are thinking ‘What if’ but that game is in the past now, with that sickening quote you always hear after being eliminated “There’s always next year” now being uttered around Old Trafford. But there’s always the next few weeks to make amends starting with a win down at Blackburn Rovers. Victory at Ewood Park would keep United hot on the heels of leaders Chelsea, while it would even lift the Reds back to the top of the league.

Words cannot express just how important three points are on Sunday. Man Utd simply have to pile the pressure back onto Chelsea as the Blues won’t play again in the league until a week later due to their FA Cup commitments on Saturday. Before Chelsea’s next game, United could be a point in front should they succeed in their bid for victory, albeit having played a game more, and a win would pile immense pressure back onto Chelsea. However, without Wayne Rooney, who surely has to be a major doubt after his midweek exertions, how will United break down what has been a stubborn Blackburn side when playing at Ewood Park? Will Berbatov come back into the team after only playing the last 10 minutes of Wednesday’s defeat, or will Fergie spring another surprise? We’re fed up of guessing to be fair and don’t actually think anyone of United’s fringe players will make much difference after that gut-wrenching defeat on Wednesday.

Match Verdict: Draw – 4.30 Expekt

While United are still recovering from their Champions League heartache, Blackburn will aim to pile more woe onto Sunday’s tourists by denting their title bid. They’re unbeaten in their last four league games, haven’t lost a home fixture in 2010 and look the real business to halt United’s charge for the top of the table as an away win for the Reds would send them top of the pack. With the likelihood of Wayne Rooney not featuring, it’s difficult to see where their creativity and forward spark will come from. Dimitar Berbatov looks the likely replacement for Wayne Rooney but he’s too easy to keep quiet. United fans will be pinning their hopes on the form of Nani. The Portuguese winger has found a new lease of life since the turn of the year and was sensational on Wednesday night, scoring twice whilst being at the heart of every United attack. Nani is finally beginning to show his worth and Alex Ferguson will need his former flop to shine once again as United can ill-afford any more slip ups from now on.

Match Odds:

Blackburn Rovers – 8.00 Coral

Draw – 4.30 Expekt

Manchester United – 1.50 SkyBet

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Blackburn Rovers +1 Goals (Asian Handicap) – 2.10 VCbet

UEFA Champions League: Quarter-Finals, Second Leg

Manchester United V Bayern Munich

Wednesday, 7^th April – 19:45 GMT

TV Coverage: ITV1

First Leg: Bayern Munich 2-1 Manchester United

As Manchester United set out to end their baron run of seven successive failures to overhaul a German opponent over two legs, the Red Devils got off to the worst possible start as they fell to a 2-1 defeat at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany. It was the English side though, Man Utd, who struck first with barely a minute on the clock when Wayne Rooney – who else – volleyed home from just two yards out to send the away side sprinting into a 1-0 aggregate lead. More importantly, Alex Ferguson could breathe a little easier as he know he already had a vital away goal to take home with him, although he wanted a lot more. He didn’t get what he wished for however as Franck Ribery’s deflected free-kick found the back of Van Der Sar’s net via the heel of Wayne Rooney.

With United being pushed further back as the game began to die away, Bayern pressed for a winner, although clear chances were few and far between. Just as the game appeared to be dwindling out into a 1-1 draw, some sloppy defending from Patrice Evra of Manchester United gave Ivica Olic the opportunity to strike the last blow, and he did so with aplomb. The first leg did eventually finish 2-1 as Olic’s strike was virtually the last kick of the game. However, while the talking point should have been about Olic’s last gasp winner, it was instead about Rooney’s sprain ankle. An injury which will keep the England international sidelined for the second leg and a further two more weeks as well.

United were overwhelming favourites before the 2-1 defeat in Germany, but that victory for Bayern has seen their price cut right down to size, with Louis Van Gaal’s team now adjudged to have almost a 50/50 chance of making the Semi-Finals with Bayern Munich now a best priced 2.05 with totesportto sail through to the Semi’s. United, however, without Wayen Rooney spearheading their attack, are still being widely tipped by the bookies to make the next round of the competition and the best price we could find on them was 2.00 with Coral.

Manchester United

Outright Odds: 9/2 PaddyPower

To Qualify: 2.00 Coral 

Ivica Olic’s last minute winner at the Allianz Arena was a kick in the teeth for Alex Ferguson and his Manchester United camp, but there is plenty of room for optimism as they head back to England where Old Trafford, a venue they comprehensively beat AC Milan 4-0 at in the last round, will hopefully become the setting to another memorable European night for the Red Devils of Manchester. The Reds’ have never beaten Bayern Munich over two legs in Europe, and as they trail 2-1 from the first leg they know they have it all to do back home. But it’s possible, and their quote of 1.70 with SportingBetgives us the impression that the majority of bookmakers are of the same opinion, and that home advantage could tell in this deciding second leg. 

As previously stated though, there is still a lot of work to be done. The plus point from the first leg was their away goal. The negative, however, was that their scorer of their goal in Germany will miss this game, as well as several other important fixtures, as Rooney recovers from a sprained ankle suffered in the dying minutes of that 2-1 defeat in Germany. He’s United’s top goalscorer this season with 34 goals scored in all competitions, while he had previously scored in each of United’s previous three knock-out matches even managing three against AC Milan over the two legs.  

So we’ve established Wayne Rooney will be a big loss, but what was more damaging was their weekend defeat to Chelsea. The Champions League isn’t the only trophy Alex Ferguson and Manchester United have on the radar as the Premiership title is firmly within sight. However, the Premier League crown did distance itself from Old Trafford after their 2-1 defeat at home to the now league leaders Chelsea. It was a bitter blow as it meant United relinquished their grasp of top spot, while it also highlighted a huge flaw in that United have no answer to Rooney’s absence. We expected Ferguson’s charges to put in a far better display on Saturday than the one we were treated to. They were uncharacteristically sluggish and sloppy all over the pitch, giving the ball away on countless occasions while their Midfielder’s barely got a foothold in the game. Moreover, Dimitar Berbatov was useless up front on his own. It was a scary sight as you don’t normally see Manchester United strapped for ideas, or lacking in creative flair, but with Berbatov up front by himself United had little to offer from an attacking sense. So much so that they didn’t create anything of note, while their goal came from the arm of Macheda after a pinball like Chelsea penalty area. 

Alex Ferguson opted for five in midfield on Saturday in a bid to contain a predatory like Chelsea. On Wednesday, however, it’s United who should be feeling the pinch as they have no option but to go in search of goals in order to bridge the 2-1 deficit. Fergie will need to abandon his cautious approach but doesn’t necessarily have the players at his disposal to do so. His only striking option is that of Dimitar Berbatov, which won’t fill fans with optimism as he just doesn’t given anyone much of an option, while his lack of enthusiasm while on the pitch is very frustrating for the supporters. They do have two pacey wingers in Nani and Valencia though, while Ryan Giggs’ experience can be relied upon on the big stage, all of which can beat their markers and deliver a decent ball, but whichever lines up on the left could have their work cut out against an accomplished right-back in Lahm, while all three were involved over the weekend and neither exactly boosted their claims for a starting role on Wednesday.

We have no qualms over the United defence, one which, despite conceding a couple in their last few home outings, has been resolute and reliable for the most part at home this season. Our concerns are in midfield, and whether Alex Ferguson has the necessary inventory to dominate the middle of the park. They were clearly the losers on Saturday as Chelsea bossed the midfield, and that’s not good to hear when the likes of Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben are in the oppositions team sheet. Fergie will need to somehow quell Bayern’s biggest threats which are their pacey wingers, while he will need to give one hell-of-a inspirational team talk to Nani and Valencia after their dismal showings at the weekend. The two mentioned have the potential to land United the spoils at Old Trafford and without a big display from both, United will struggle to overpower their German rivals.

Positives:  

A rampant home crowd at Old Trafford. 

Two agile, skilful and fast wingers in Nani and Valencia. 

Two of the worlds best defenders in Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, backed up by a reliable Edwin Van Der Sar. 

Negatives: 

Limited forward options, with Dimitar Berbatov the only stand out in the United squad. 

A Midfield lacking in confidence, ideas and creativity at present.  

An unconvincing right-back in Gary Neville. He was awful on Saturday and will get torn to shreds against Franck Ribery. 

Very few impact players on the bench.

Bayern Munich

Outright Odds: 10/1 Bodog

To Qualify: 2.05 totesport

With Bayern Munich back on top of the German Bundesliga after their 2-1 win at FC Schalke on Saturday, the German giants will once again be dreaming of European domination after putting one foot in the semi-finals after their 2-1 victory at the Allianz Arena in Germany. The task now, though, is to travel over to England and defend their narrow aggregate lead against a Manchester United side who not only dispatched of AC Milan in the last round in a comprehensive fashion, but also thrashed the Italians, the 2007 Champions, 4-0 at Old Trafford. A result which will have reverberated around Europe no doubt.

Bayern, though, will be supremely confident after their exploits in Schalke on Saturday. Schalke may not quite be a household name back home but they were, and still are, a force to be reckoned with back in Germany, and Bayern’s 2-1 defeat of them sent the Munich side back to the top of the table as a direct result. It was the best possible outcome for Louis Van Gaal as it ended the clubs run of two successive league defeats and instead put Bayern Munich top of the pile.The Belgium manager will now take a group of buoyant and extremely confident players over to England where he’ll now try to mastermind a victory over arguably the worlds greatest ever manager in Sir Alex Ferguson. 

Bayern’s away form though in the competition will be a concern of Van Gaal after two wins and two defeats on the road thus far. However, it’s certainly worth pointing out that Bayern have scored in each of their four away encounters in Europe this season, scoring ten in all; two of those coming in the last round in Florence against Fiorentina. The Germans did look down and out in that last-sixteen tie at one stage before an Arjen Robben wonder strike booked their place in the next round. That’s the danger with Bayern Munich; they have players which can create a goal from absolutely nothing, those which have the ability toturn any game completely on it’s head. The two stand-outs of course are Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery as they make things happen. Both of whom will cause United all sorts of problems down the wings, while the pair do like to cut in and have a pop at goal, often to great affect.

Louis Van Gaal got his squad fired up at the weekend for their top of the table clash with FC Schalke, and he reaped the rewards in a 2-1 victory. The players putting in a battling display and played remarkably well as a team, as a unit, and their exuberant celebrations were a clear message that they’re hungry for glory this season, and that they’re desperate for some silverware. However, the players went out knowing they had to win at the Veltins Arena at the weekend but won’t have that same expectant pressure upon their shoulders at Old Trafford as they can rest assured in the knowledge that their 2-1 aggregate means it’s United who need to ask the questions.

Bayern took a narrow advantage to Fiorentina in the last round. They tried to sit back and absorb some early pressure but some costly mistakes led to Bayern having to come out of their shells. When they did though, the Germans looked dangerous, although they were also caught napping on more than one occasion at the back. We aren’t entirely convinced Van Gaal has players of genuine quality at the back needed to repel a team with so much European pedigree like Manchester United for the full 90 minutes, while there will be common reservations about Bayern’s ability to chase games. When they need a result on the road they tend to go out in an ‘all-guns-blazing’ attitude. They cause the opposition plenty of problems with their attacking numbers but they also leave themselves exposed at the back. Van Gaal needs to somehow get the right mixture of attack and defence in order for Bayern Munich to claim a big scalp along the way to a semi-final showdown with Lyon or Bordeaux.

Match Verdict: Draw – 3.80 bWin

We feel Bayern will prove a step too far for Manchester United even though they now boast home advantage. This Bayern defence isn’t the strongest and should be breached at least once in fairness, but United really didn’t look at all up to scratch on Saturday and their 2-1 defeat, what was a bitter defeat at the hands of Chelsea, could send them spiralling into a terrible run of results if they’re not careful. With United aiming to press and ask questions of what we feel is a fairly weak Bayern back four, and Bayern themselves looking to as their own questions on the counter, this could be a to-and-throe game which could go either way. However, with the momentum now with the Germans, we’re opting for Bayern Munich in a score draw. We’re envisaging a nervy last 15 minutes or so where United have the lead but a late strike from either Arjen Robben or Franck Ribery sends the United fans into despair.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.70 SportingBet

Draw – 3.80 bWin

Bayern Munich – 5.30 Bet365

Manchester United V Chelsea

Saturday, 3^rd April – 12:45 GMT

TV Coverage: Sky Sports 1

Manchester United

League Position: 1st

Recent Form: WWWWW

While the talking point should be about United’s superb run of form at Old Trafford, and how a win over their closest title rival would put them firmly in the driving seat, it is instead all about Wayne Rooney, but for all the wrong reasons. As Man Utd crashed to their first defeat in the knock-out stages of the Champions League on Wednesday night, losing 2-1 in Bayern Munich, Wayne Rooney, with just seconds remaining, was found in a heap in the centre of the Allianz pitch in agony after spraining his ankle. The influential and prolific Untied forward will now miss anywhere between 2-4 weeks of action and it was interesting to see that bookies have altered Manchester United’s odds of winning this hugely anticipated clash accordingly.

Manchester United were strong favourites to win this clash before the Rooney injury, somewhere around the 5/4 mark. Now, however, in the absence of a striker which has bagged no less than 34 goals this season, United are as big as 2.63 (7/4) to win Saturday’s enthralling clash with Chelsea. The bookies obviously feel United just aren’t the same team without a Mr. Rooney in their side and it’s hard to disagree with their viewpoint. With Rooney out, it’s difficult to see where the injection of pace will come from, or who will make those darting runs inside the opposing box. Of course, Alex Ferguson does have a striker valued at £30Million at his disposal, but Dimitar Berbatov is no Wayne Rooney. To even compare the two is laughable and to replace a man with bags of enthusiasm and great work ethic with a striker who spends most of his pitch time twiddling his thumbs will undoubtedly lead to doubting punters and pundits around the country.

Quite how Manchester United will cope without their fiery Scouser we don’t know, but even so, at odds of around 2.63 (7/4), United do look tremendous value considering they still have a team mixed with quality and experience, while their defence is growing stronger with each game. That’s the pivotal factor for us; United’s defence. They may have been sluggish on Wednesday night in Germany, but back home at Old Trafford they’ve been almost impenetrable, with Fernando Torres the only player to score at The Stadium of Dreams in 720 minutes of action. It goes without saying that Chelsea have some forward stars of their own but if the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra – World Class defenders in their own right – could put in a tidy defensive shift, all it would take was a clinical piece of finishing at the other end to win this fixture, of which any number of players could fit the bill. Dimitar Berbatov is quite capable of stealing the show when he wants to. Despite the Bulgarian’s lazy attitude, he’s a quality forward and give him a whiff at goal and chances are, he will grab it with both hands. Granted he’s yet to score against Chelsea in a United shirt but he’s never been given an opportunity as golden as this and we reckon he might take some of the limelight off Rooney’s injury with a match winning performance on Saturday.

If you need me to name other players who can make a difference on Saturday and back up my claims that Manchester United remain a snip at 2.63, look no further than the likes of Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Nani, Valencia and Park… All have tonnes of big game experience and will know exactly what it takes to win a fixture of this magnitude. You could also throw both Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher into the mixer as the pair will be instrumental in United’s chances on Saturday. The pair, should they both start, will need to shield what has been a rock hard United back line from danger and you’ll struggle to find two men better equipped for the job.

We understand United are now lacking their best player in Wayne Rooney but don’t write Alex Ferguson and Man Utd off just yet. The Scot is a master in these types of games and at the odds, we won’t be opposing them, even without a player battling for European supremacy with Lionel Messi.

• Man Utd have lost just one league game at Old Trafford all season (14-1-1). 

•  Aston Villa are the only team to have beaten the reigning English champions at Old Trafford in the league. 

•  An unforgiven United defence has conceded just one league goal in 720 minutes of play at Old Trafford, and it took one of the world’s best strikers to do so, Liverpool’s own Fernando Torres. 

•  Sir Alex Ferguson has guided United to an impressive 14 wins in 16 games at Old Trafford this season, of which 10 of them were without conceding a goal. 

• United’s defensive record of just 9 goals conceded is the best in the league, while the 44 goals they’ve amassed so far at Old Trafford is the second best offensive record.

Chelsea

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: LWDWW

Chelsea fans must be wandering what they’ve done to deserve such fantastic luck. We are certain none of the Chelsea squad, including their manager Carlo Ancelotti, would have wished an injury on Manchester United’s most prolific goalscorer Wayne Rooney, but for one reason or another the football Gods are shining down on Chelsea this week and they’ll head into this crunch 1^st versus 2^nd clash looking to make Rooney’s absence pay for the hosts at Old Trafford. To do so, though, Chelsea would need to strike up their first win at Old Trafford in nearly five years, while they would have to send the mighty Red Devils to just their second home defeat of the season.

We feel it’s common knowledge now, what with Rooney’s injury being heavily publicised, that Chelsea won’t have a better opportunity to end their four game drought at Old Trafford than on Saturday afternoon. In their previous four visits to Old Trafford, Chelsea have drawn one but lost three, while they’ve not even managed to get on the score sheet in their previous two trips to the Stadium of Dreams. You would like to think, what with United missing their biggest goal threat on Saturday, that Chelsea would at least end their baron run in front of goal with Saturday’s visit, but the travelling Chelsea support will hold out hopes for bigger and better, that being all three points. Basically a win that would lift the Blues above United in the league and back into the Premier League driving seat.

Chelsea have prepared well for this clash, beating their last two league opponents in a convincing manner. Their last away encounter was a trip down South to Portsmouth. Chelsea smashed the South Coast side 5-0 at Fratton Park, although we mustn’t forget that Portsmouth are all but relegated. However, to prove their 5-0 demolition of Portsmouth wasn’t just a fluke, Chelsea obliterated Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge at the weekend in a 7-1 drubbing of a Villa side who beforehand had serious claims for Champions League football. Chelsea have now all but ended Villa’s hopes of a fourth place finish, and with the Chelsea players in a rampant yet savage mood of late, they’ll now go for the throat of United and try to derail their title bid with a victory at Old Trafford. 

The preparation has gone well, they’ve got their rub of the green with Wayne Rooney out, while there scoring plenty of goals. However, something just doesn’t sit right with a Chelsea bet this weekend and I’m not sure what it is. Like we’ve said, they’ve got plenty going for them right now but, for one reason or another, I can just see them falling short at Old Trafford. Chelsea haven’t raised their game in this fixture for quite some time and will they have raised the stakes with some of their recent displays, I’m still not 100% confident there is a team unity within the Chelsea dressing room. Only time will tell whether I’ll be proven right or wrong, although the good news is we only have to wait a couple more days to see.

• Chelsea have lost five games this season, two less than their rivals, but four of those have come on the road away from Stamford Bridge. 

•  Chelsea have now notched up 12 goals from their last two league games after impressive and resounding victories over Portsmouth (0-5) and Aston Villa (7-1). 

•  After 16 completed away games (8-4-4) Chelsea have only failed to score in an away fixture once (Birmingham City 0-0 Chelsea). 

•  Chelsea have the best away defensive record in the league: Conceding 5. 

•  Chelsea’s tally of 30 away goals is the third best offensive record in the Premier League, behind both Arsenal and Manchester United. 

• Chelsea haven’t won at Old Trafford for nearly five years: W:0 D:1 L: 3.

Last 5 meetings at Old Trafford:

2009/2009: Manchester United 3-0 Chelsea

2007/2008: Manchester United 2-0 Chelsea

2006/2007: Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea

2005/2006: Manchester United 1-0 Chelsea

2004/2005: Manchester United 1-3 Chelsea

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 2.63 Bet365
 

As Chelsea set out to grasp this golden opportunity to end their five year wait for an Old Trafford win, we turn in the other direction to a man with greater Premiership experience, more English league titles than anyone else and the master at big games… Sir Alex Ferguson. The Scots tactical nous will be the difference for us as he aims to make light of the fact that he is without his most prized asset in Wayne Rooney. He did so emphatically at the weekend when smashing Bolton Wanderers 4-0 at The Reebok, and while this opponent is one of far more class and quality, the fact remains that both Ferguson and Manchester United know too well how to defy adversity.

We reckon Fergie will opt for five in midfield: Carrick and Fletcher in the anchor roles, Park a little in front of them while the wing positions will be occupied by two of either Ryan Giggs, Nani or Antonio Valencia. Personally, I’d have Ryan Giggs down the left and keep an in form Nani down the right. Whoever gets the nods, both wingers will need to work on their supply into Berbatov as they will need to be pinpoint, while the pair will want to cut inside and cause some trouble of their own. I don’t know about you but even that looks dangerous enough, so why some are saying this is Chelsea’s for the taking even before they’ve properly analysed the two teams is baffling.

We could be proved wrong, while we are setting ourselves up for a big fall should Chelsea win at Old Trafford, but we don’t see that being the case and we really do fancy Manchester United back at Old Trafford to put a miserable week behind them and return to winning ways in what would be a win to put their Bayern Munich defeat right to bed… at least for a week or so.

Air of caution: Didier Drogba is just two goals behind Wayne Rooney in the scoring charts and will want to make inroads on that two goal deficit before Rooney returns in about a months time.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 2.63 Bet365

Draw – 3.25 Boylesports

Chelsea – 2.88 SkyBet

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Dimitar Berbatov FGS – 7.50 Bet365