ManU

Aston Villa V Manchester United

Wednesday, 10^th February – 19:45 GMT

Two teams, who can ill-afford to slip up and lose ground on their respective targets, go in search of a vital win that will keep them on course for their own individual mission. Villa are still harbouring hopes of finishing in the top four, the Champions League places, while Manchester United are hot on the heels of Chelsea as they chase down their fifth successive league title. There is so much at stake in this fixture, but for one side revenge is at the forefront of their minds after the reverse fixture at Old Trafford finished 1-0 to the visitors, with Gabriel Agbonlahor scoring Villa’s winner with a first-half header. Who will claim the spoils at the second time of asking and will Villa complete a rare and historic league double over the mighty Manchester United?

Aston Villa

League Position: 7th

Recent Form: LDDWD

Martin O’Neill and his youngish Villa side have come across a sticky patch of form which has seen Villa manage just one win in their last six league games. However, to says it’s been a tricky fixture list for Villa would be an understatement, with Villa playing the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool & Tottenham in a six match spell since Boxing day, with their latest being fellow top four hopefuls, Tottenham Hotspur. Villa were the away side in their clash with Spurs on Saturday, in a game that ended 0-0, much to the relief of the Villa manager and their fans as Villa were completely outplayed for large periods of that game.

O’Neill’s troops spent the best part of 90 minutes on the back foot against Spurs, repelling any Tottenham trespassers that dare enter their penalty area. Tottenham controlled the pace and tempo of the game and were allowed to assert themselves in the match very early on. The Villa goal really did lead a charmed life and the point was a fortunate one for Villa, although a deserved one in many respects as the Villa defence did have to work extremely hard. However, what was discouraging was how negative Villa played at White Hart Lane in that they seemed quite content to let Tottenham dictate play and appeared more than happy to defend. We know Tottenham are a big threat when going forward, especially when playing at home in front of their fans, but it was a game Villa were equipped to win. Not saying they would have won with a more adventurous attitude but it would have certainly led to a much more competitive affair than the one-sided contest we eventually got.

We don’t expect for one second that Martin O’Neill will opt for a similar style of play in this fixture as it’s a home outing for his Villa side this time around. However, the negativity of their play was astonishing and it could have a downward effect on their forward play if they don’t actually attempt to make forward runs in games. After watching them on Saturday, it didn’t surprise me to hear that Villa haven’t scored in five of their last six league encounters, with three actually being at Villa Park. Their strikers just aren’t getting a fluent run of play at the present time and it’s having a negative effect on their morale and form. 

The last time, and only time in six, Villa scored in a Premiership fixture was away at Fulham when they won 2-0. However, even those goals were due to defensive mistakes from Fulham, so some could say Villa are struggling for creativity at present, which is a strange comment to make considering the amount of creative players they have in their squad; Milner, Young, Downing and Petrov.. However, the facts remain that Villa are struggling in front of goal and could find themselves leaving Villa Park empty handed once again if they don’t buck up their ideas in front of goal.

They are without a win at Villa Park in their last three, with Villa failing to score in all three, and in the knowledge that Villa haven’t beaten United at Villa Park this side of the Millennium, surely the home side must be opposed in this clash?

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: DWWWW

The Red Devils are back to their scintillating best and even an on-song Aston Villa would struggle to halt this United express on current form. They have all the momentum after yet another winning weekend, this time smashing five past a hapless Portsmouth, and now United take their winning run of four games, and unbeaten streak of seven, to Villa Park where they’ll be gunning for revenge after their home defeat to Villa earlier in the season.

Manchester United are in the perfect form to reverse the 1-0 defeat to Villa at Old Trafford after looking unstoppable of late, and backing this unstoppable comment up with a seven match unbeaten run. Their demolition of Portsmouth on Saturday was their fourth victory on the spin following their sublime win at The Emirates a week earlier, beating Arsenal 3-1 in an emphatic manner. Their win on Saturday was largely down to some good fortune, but you make your own fortune in this game and United might not need any lucky charms on Wednesday if they can somehow replicate their performance in their last away outing, at Arsenal, into this fixture at Villa Park, in that United were lethal on the attack and tidy at the back against The Gunners, which makes for a pleasant change.  

However, before we get too carried away, we must say that United have only won two of their last four away fixtures and have been found wanting on their travels on a few occasions this season. They are, though, undefeated on the road since their humbling at Craven Cottage by Fulham, back in December. They recovered well mind, winning two of their next three, but one was against a toothless Hull City, at the time, and they did almost come unstuck at Villa’s loca neighbours, Birmingham City, drawing 1-1 at S.t Andrews after coming back from 1-0 down. Still, unbeaten in three games away from home, scoring seven and conceding two, and United look the team to be on in this clash.

One thing we must point out, and advise caution on, is not to get too carried away with United’s recent scoring antics. Alex Ferguson’s side, spearheaded by the leagues top goalscorer in Wayne Rooney, have scored an outstanding fifteen goals in their last four league fixtures; an average of nearly 4 goals a game. However, with the exception of Arsenal, their goals have come against some of the leagues worst teams, with United scoring 3 against Burnley, putting 4 past Hull City & 5 past Portsmouth, all in the bottom half of the table, two of which were in the relegation one at the start of the weekend. The goals will, however, bring about a significant boost in confidence for the United forwards, mainly just Wayne Rooney, and their creative players, but we mustn’t forget that Villa have a strong defence, one of thee strongest in the league, and haven’t conceded a league goal in four games – So don’t be too hasty!

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.91 Bet365

Villa have lost a great deal of momentum with this baron looking run of one win in six, whereas United are flying at the moment and even a resilient Villa could struggle to stop the mighty reds on Wednesday evening. Villa’s attackers haven’t had much luck in recent fixtures, league wise, and we feel they could bottle in the crucial moments at Villa Park, while United have been scoring goals left, right and centre and appear far too strong for an always improving Aston Villa.

Match Odds:

Aston Villa – 4.30 VCbet

Draw – 3.60 Boylesports

Manchester United – 1.91 Bet365

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Man Utd to WIN to NIL – 3.25 SkyBet

Villa haven’t had much luck in front of goal in their recent outings, while United have been winning whilst keeping clean sheets of late, albeit against far inferior opposition. Nevertheless, the confidence at the back for United is steadily growing and we feel a to NIL victory could be on the cards. Sir Alex hasn’t seen his United side keep an away clean sheet since early December when United ran riot at Upton Park, beating West Ham 4-0, but their defence is looking a lot tighter now, more organised, and should of ended their baron clean sheet run in their last away outing at The Emirates, with a deflected Thomas Vermaelen shot spoiling United’s early defensive celebrations.

Also, Wayne Rooney is on fire right now, and even X2 Jens Lehmann’s, X3 Heurelho Gomes’ and X7 David James’ in the goal would struggle to keep the United machine out on present form. Rooney bagged two when United won 4-1 at Villa Park in 2007, United’s last victory at Aston Villa after drawing 0-0 their last season, and we’ve taken to his odds of scoring more against Villa on Wednesday night.

Advisable Bets:

Wayne Rooney Anytime Scorer – 11/8 Boylesports

Wayne Rooney FGS – 9/2 totesport

Wayne Rooney to score a BRACE (2 or more) – 7/1 WilliamHill

Manchester United V Portsmouth

Saturday, 6^th February – 15:00 GMT

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: DLLWL

Manchester United appear to be back to their ruthless selves and it doesn’t get any better for the current Premiership champions than a home fixture with bottom of the league, Portsmouth. A game which United are expected to dominate from start to finish, control the tempo of the game and score plenty of goals in as they’ve been finding the goal with ease of late. The Red Devils are widely renowned for their strong second-half finishes to a season and 2010, the second half of what is shaping up to be one of the tightest Premiership seasons to date, is no exception, with United winning all three of their league fixtures this year and are aiming to maintain this winning run by dishing out another beating. 

The morale in the United camp will have rocketed through the roof after their sensational display and result over the weekend. Sir Alex Ferguson was touting his sides clash at The Emirates with a in form Arsenal as one of the games of the season and the most successful manager in English history was true to his word as United swept a-side their title challengers. United did need a bit of luck to get the ball rolling when Manuel Almunia in the Arsenal goal flicked a Nani cross-come-shot into his own goal, but the Mighty Reds’ never looked back and seized on this piece of good fortune but asserting their authority. Wayne Rooney, who has been United’s shining light, not only of late but for the entire season thus far, notched up his 100^th goal in the Premier League with United’s second before Park scored their third with a phenomenal breakaway attack. Arsenal did bag a late consolation but, all-in-all, it was a fantastic day at the office for Fergie’s Man Utd and they are now huge favourites to win this game and pile more pressure on Chelsea at the top.

There are few better feelings in football than getting one over on an arch-enemy and it was United who enjoyed such a euphoric feeling on Sunday after their 3-1 victory over the Gunners. That result, on top of their two other comfortable victories in 2010; beating Burnley & Hull City 3-0 & 4-0 at home respectively, should be an ample stepping stone for a big run of form for United as the chase for the title hots up once more. United, who are hot on the heels of Chelsea, are just one point behind Chelsea in the table but do have a game less to play. However, so long as United maintain this pressure then Chelsea are a good bet to slip up at some point. Sir Alex is the master at capitalizing on others misfortunes and it’s no surprise to see many punters jumping ship and backing United for the title now.

With the exception of their away fixture at The Emirates, a game they excelled in, United have had an easy start to 2010 after home fixtures with Burnley & Hull City, with United winning both. Those two sides mentioned are both firmly in a relegation fight and now United welcome another straggler in Portsmouth… A fixture more easier on the eye than their previous easy fixtures. With Rooney & Co winning 10 of 12 home games thus far, and winning their previous four home fixtures, anything other than a comfortable United victory, complimented by a few home goals, would be a turn up for the books as this looks as straightforward a fixtures as you’ll ever see.

Portsmouth

League Position: 20th

Recent Form: LLDLL

Portsmouth could best be described as a Roundabout – Not because they’ve now had their third new owner of the season when Balram Chainrai took over the reigns but because they’ve simply drive you round the bloody bend. We could easily highlight five or six games this season where Pompey played well in a match or were the better side throughout and this was the case on Wednesday as Portsmouth, once again, played extremely well, better than expected, but still came out on the losing side. Argh!

Fortunately for us, we were on Fulham to beat Portsmouth but we’re putting ourselves into a Portsmouth’s fans shoes and we must say they’re giving us blisters. On Wednesday night, Portsmouth succumbed to their 16^th – Yes 16^th defeat of the season. That’s a ridiculous amount of losses for a side that were celebrating an FA Cup success just two years ago. The South Coast team have a 70% losing percentage in Premiership affairs this season and that looks an almost certainty to stretch further with the visit to Old Trafford this Saturday. 

During January, Younes Kaboul left the club and so did Begovic, leaving Portsmouth even lighter in numbers. However, the sale of both was the biggest indication yet, although there has been plenty, that Portsmouth are in dire straits and that they desperately need any form of cash to keep HM revenue and many others of their backs. Avram Grant can’t complain as he knew what he was getting himself into and he must now work with the few half-decent players he has left at his disposal.

To be frank and honest, Portsmouth will do well to escape Old Trafford with a respectable scoreline, such is the task at hand and the gulf in class Portsmouth have to breach. Separating Portsmouth from Man Utd is 18 league positions and 38 points. Pompey, after a thriller of a campaign (Not in a good way, mind) are rooted to the very bottom of the league and, with wholesale departures expected at the end of the season, Portsmouth look doomed already despite nearly half the season still to play. Moreover, to worsen Portsmouth Old Trafford credentials; the Sea-Siders haven’t won an away fixture since early October when they beat a less-than-impressive Wolves 1-0 at Molineux. They’ve lost six of their last seven away games in the league; conceding 11 and scoring just 2.  

The plus point, though was Portsmouth’s performance on Wednesday in that they looked dangerous in attack. Because Grant still has a physically-strong striking duo of Piquionne & Dindane, whom I thought had left the club, Portsmouth do remain a danger when in the final third. However, they will struggle to get hold of the ball in this contest and Portsmouth’s strikers may only get one chance to make a quick-fire name for themselves at Old Trafford for when the club eventually do let them go, which should be in July to ease their money problems.

Head-to-Head:

Manchester United W:8 Portsmouth W:1 Draws:1

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.14 SkyBet

This really could be a mammoth scoreline but one thing Portsmouth still have, even now after all the going-on’s and dramas, they have this fighting spirit, this die-hard attitude where they battle on regardless of all the clubs well publicised financial issues. I do remember when they went to Stamford Bridge a little while ago this season and gave a very good account of themselves. Perhaps should have taken a point from there. However, Portsmouth didn’t take their chances in that game and have had a issue with converting opportunities all season. United, however, will carve out plenty against a Portsmouth defence which would struggle to compete in The Championship. We expect United to score at least a couple in this contest, but Portsmouth to score, as well, could be worth a small dabble mainly because United aren’t worth the hassle.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.14 SkyBet

Draw – 9.00 VCbet

Portsmouth – 25.00 SkyBet

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Pick: Both teams to score – 2.75 WilliamHill

Arsenal V Manchester United

Sunday, 31^st January – 16:00 GMT (Sky Sports 1)

Arsenal

League Position: 3rd

Recent Form: WDWWD 

A fixture which will really test the resolve of Arsenal and will give us a quick assessment on how The Gunners will fare in this race for the title. Arsenal’s last encounter with a ‘Top Four’ team was that emphatic home defeat with Chelsea, losing 3-0 at The Emirates. At the time, mainly because of the manner in which Arsenal lost that day, most punters and pundits alike were writing Arsenal completely off in the title race and who could blame them after what was an abysmal display. However, they’ve replied magnificently and have since not fallen to a single league defeat, going ten games unbeaten and jumping right back into the title equation.  

The positive factor for Arsenal fans is that their record at home of late is strong, with four wins from their last five home fixtures. However, there are now a few negatives, with one being their recent setback away at Villa Park in which they were held by an Aston Villa side which pushed them closed for the best part of the last season for a Champions League berth, drawing 0-0 at Villa Park last Wednesday. It was a game where either side could have won as both had chances to win the game, but neither had that cutting edge in the final third of the pitch and the draw was a fair result come the end.

However, it was Arsene Wenger who was more disgruntled with the result as he bemoaned Martin O’Neill’s ‘Route 1 & Physical’ style of play in that encounter and claimed Villa got their tactics spot on as Villa didn’t allow his own players to play their own breed of football. To be honest, we felt Arsenal’s players showed a lack of immaturity as they didn’t adapt quickly enough to Villa’s aggressive style on the night, and by that we mean Villa’s obsessive closing down. It was also a poor act on Wenger’s part as you can’t expect to play in the same manner for each and every game, and that the need for a mix-up in style and tactics is always needed in the Premiership.

Our next rant, although this one is smaller, is Arsenal’s poor start in their previous home encounter with Bolton Wanderers. The Gunners were sluggish out of the blocks in their home fixture with Bolton and quickly found themselves two goals down with less than 20 minutes on the clock. They made such a sloppy start that it was beyond belief to see Bolton go two up within minutes, and if they started in the same fashion on Sunday, they would almost certainly be punished. They did, however, pull off a stunning comeback when they eventually ran out comfortable 4-2 winners, but their lacklustre start to the game did concern us and does leave them exposed as the Red Devils come to town.

Arsenal’s home record: 9-1-1.  

The Emirates has brought about a huge chunk of Arsenal’s points this season, with nine of their fifteen league wins coming at home. They’ve also suffered just the one home defeat all season, although that was in their first home encounter against one of the so called ‘Big Four’ this season, losing 3-0 as Arsenal put in one of their poorest displays of the campaign.

Goals For: 34 Goals Against: 11 

As you can see, Arsenal have been prolific in front of goal at The Emirates but have been equally as impressive at the back, conceding just eleven goals in eleven home games. They are averaging over 3 goals a game at home this season and have only once failed to find the opposing goal; that in their solitary home defeat thus far to Chelsea. 

Top Goalscorer: Cesc Fabregas – 11 League Goals

The Spaniard has been the driving success behind this recent Arsenal surge and has often been their saviour in games Arsenal look destined to drop points in. On current form, Fabregas would be up their in the top three of the worlds best players as his slick interchanging, superb vision when on the ball and sleek finishing is just too hot to handle for some sides. With Arsene Wenger suffering plenty of attacking injuries, Eduardo being his most recent injury abseentee, Fabregas has risen to the challenge and has four more league goals than anyone else in the Arsenal squad. An incredible achievement for a midfielder.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWDWW

It’s a Manchester United side buoyed by their Carling Cup semi-final success that heads down to the capital on Sunday in a game they too must win in order to retain some pressure on the league leaders, Chelsea. The Red Devils shown a lot of heart in their 3-1 defeat of Man City on Wednesday night and they’ll require plenty of the same if they are to record another colossal victory at The Emirates and send Arsenal to their first league defeat in ten games.  

Sir Alex thought Wayne Rooney put in a ‘World Class’ performance on Wednesday night and we wouldn’t disagree with those comments. The England forward was at the heart of everything good with United’s play and it was fitting that he grabbed United’s third and eventual winner. To be fair, though, United as a team played extremely well and were the better side for most parts. The first half was a drab affair but United really took it to City in the second half, creating plenty of chances and United could of scored four or five with some clinical and composed finishing. However, it was their midfield which impressed me the most, in the second half that is, as they bombed forward when in attack, in numbers, and they had City camped in their own half for most of the second period.

If United can replicate their second half display into their match with Arsenal on Sunday then we should be in for a real treat as Arsenal will attack United at every opportunity, and so, ideally, we would like United to do the same. However, the Red Devils haven’t fared at all well in away fixtures with the ‘Top Four’ this season, having lost at both Chelsea & Liverpool, both to NIL. Moreover, United haven’t won at Arsenal since their thrilling 4-2 victory at Highbury back in 2005. They have since failed in their last four attempts to overhaul Arsenal on Gunners territory, drawing twice and losing twice. 

United’s form away from home this season hasn’t been the best but they too have a decent unbeaten run under their belts and haven’t lost a league fixture in five games. A run which started shortly after Christmas. However, United have been found wanting on a few away occasions this season and none more so than in their fixtures with Chelsea & Liverpool. At Anfield, United were extremely poor and never threatened the Liverpool goal. They were more lively in their Stamford Bridge encounter, creating a few openings, but their finishing was poor on the day and were punished for their striking arrogance. A defeat at The Emirates would send United to their third ‘Big Four’ defeat of the season and leave them without a point on their travels against the ‘Top Dogs’.

Manchester United away record: 6-1-4

It’s rare to see so many defeats on the road for the mighty Red Devils but what stands out more was the scoreline in each of their four away defeats. In all four, United failed to score in all of them, losing to NIL with Burnley (1-0), Liverpool (2-0), Chelsea (1-0) and Fulham (3-0). You don’t often associate Man Utd with a blunt attacking line but that has been the case this season, with Wayne Rooney their only bright spark for them in attack. They are, though, unbeaten in their last two away fixtures, having scrambled a draw at Birmingham in their last away encounter and earning a 3-1 victory at Hull City just after Christmas.

Goals For: 22 Goals Against: 11

United’s away record this term may not look sharp but they still boast an impressive away goal difference of + 11. However, United haven’t kept an away clean sheet since their 4-0 rout of West Ham at Upton Park on 5th December, and have since seen Fulham (3Gls), Hull City (1Gl) and Birmingham City (1Gl) score against them. The positive for them, however, is the form of Wayne Rooney and you would feel a big performance is required from their most expensive and influential player on Sunday.

Top Goalscorer: Wayne Rooney – 19 League Goals

With a staggering 19 league goals for the season, Wayne Rooney is not only Man Utd’s leading goalscorer but he is also leading the way in the Premiership. Five in front of his nearest challenger, Sunderland’s Darren Bent. Without Rooney, United arguably would be a good four of five positions further down the table, such has been his importance to the United cause this season with both his goals and his performances in a United shirt. He has worked his socks off even when others haven’t even bothered to turn up and if he’s not scoring the goals you’ll often see him turn provider. He doesn’t shy away from the action, is always wanting the ball and will take some stopping on Saturday after scoring a staggering four goals in his last outing in the league, slipping four past Hull City.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 3.00 WilliamHill / Interwetten

We didn’t want to bottle it on the prediction and opted against sitting on the fence by backing United to overhaul Arsenal at The Emirates. The United camp will be buoyed by their Carling Cup success and the prospect of yet another Carling Cup final in February. However, the difference for us is Wayne Rooney and the scintillating form he is in. He has been deadly in front of goal of late and is in one of his ‘unstoppable’ moods. We fancy Rooney to be in the thick of the action in this contest in what should be a tightly contested fixture. Arsenal’s best chance of winning this game will depend solely on the performance of Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal best player by a country mile this season. However, Arshavin has a knack of scoring in the big games and did scores Arsenal’s first at Old Trafford in a 2-1 loss and their winner at Anfield in a 2-1 win against Liverpool.

It’s wide open, but we’d rather cheer on one side than simply play for the draw. Flip a coin if you must as this should be a close affair.

Match Odds:

Arsenal – 2.60 Bet365 or WilliamHill

Draw – 3.40 SkyBet

Manchester United – 3.00 Interwetten 

 [Update 31 Jan: the odds on Man United have fallen, the best odds available now is 2.85 at Expekt]

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Pick: Wayne Rooney FGS – 7.00 BetFred

Manchester United V Burnley

Saturday, 16^th January –

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WLWWD

The only thing circling around the players minds will be revenge after Burnley inflicted the most embarrassing defeat of the season on the reigning league champions near the very start of the season. The Clarets recorded a memorable 1-0 victory at Turf Moor, the shock result of the season thus far, but now the Red Devils welcome them into Hell A.K.A Old Trafford for round two of this contest. However, Burnley are at a disadvantage what with Owen Coyle’s departure leaving Burnley manager-less, but this is Fergie and it will be a no holds barred contest in Manchester so expect no sympathy from the United camp.

If you thought the 1-0 defeat at Burnley was bad, it was horrific in actual fact, then we best not describe what the loss to Leeds United at Old Trafford felt like a fortnight ago. In that game, United were terrible, probably the worst we’ve seen them play in a good season or two, it was that bad. However, they didn’t play much better last weekend as they played out a 1-1 draw with Birmingham in which they would consider themselves fortunate to have taken a point away from a game where Birmingham had far more chances but yet spurred the vast majority of them.

We know all about United’s injury list but that list is decreasing so that excuse is no longer valid. Their star-studded defensive pairing of Nemanja Vidic & Rio Ferdinand have missed a large proportion of United’s games, though, this season and words cannot describe how sorely missed the pair have been at the heart of what has been a shaky and exposed defence in their wake. Johnny Evans is supposedly the next best centre-half in the squad but he looks Championship standard at best, while Gary Neville just doesn’t have the pace nor height to compete at the highest level any more (just our honest yet brutal opinion). All this cumulates in a shoddy back line, one which is leaking goals at present and will cost them plenty of points until Ferdinand & Vidic return to save them.

The latter, Nemanja Vidic, could actually make his return from injury for this game which will be welcomed with a sigh of collective relief around Old Trafford but will his presence at the back be enough? Vidic isn’t really a leader and while Neville is, or was, he simply isn’t getting the best out of this makeshift United defence and that’s a big concern. United were far too exposed at St. Andrews on Saturday, especially from set-plays with actual man-marking non-existent.

At Old Trafford, though, is where United have been playing better and earning more points this season, with eight of their fourteen victories coming at home. They’ve won their last two league games at home; victories over Wigan Athletic (5-0) and Wolves (3-0), both were emphatic and both were tidy, but they severely let themselves down at home to Leeds United in which they shown huge signs of complacency. To be honest, they shouldn’t encounter similar problems at home to Burnley this weekend as the Clarets have been poor on the road all season but that doesn’t entitle them to three easy points. A big improvement is needed from the current champions!

Burnley

League Position: 14th

Recent Form: DDLDL 

Burnley, now without Owen Coyle, aim to complete what would be an historic double over Manchester United on Saturday as they travel up to Manchester in the knowledge that they beat the Red Devils 1-0 in the home fixture. Robbie Blake sublime volley sealed a memorable victory for the Clarets but they’ll have their work cut out getting anything from the second instalment of the United V Burnley bout as their away form has been dire this season.

Form and momentum is crucial when heading out to a tough venue, something we always say, but Burnley have very little of either after a lengthy nine match run without a victory. Their last set of three points came by virtue of a 2-0 win over a hapless Hull City, a team that hasn’t won an away game all season, much like Burnley. However, to know the stuffing well and truly out of all you Burnley fans, your side have only gone and lost on their last four away trips and haven’t picked up an away point since the beginning of November, a whole two months ago.

Burnley’s poor away form translates into dire reading (0-1-9), with the Clarets avoiding defeat in just one of their ten away fixtures thus far. However, the bad news doesn’t stop their as their away goal difference is something nightmares are made out of, especially for a manager which is perhaps why Owen Coyle did leave for sunny skies in Bolton. In those ten away outings, which we will remind you that nine were defeats, Burnley shipped a staggering amount of goals – 31, whilst managing just the 8 in return giving them a lousy -23 goal difference on the road after half the season completed.

The statistics make for dreadful and paint an almost flawless picture on United’s chances. It would take the miracle of all footballing miracles for Burnley to even hold the mighty Manchester United at Old Trafford judging by not only their poor away record, or their poor away defence, or even their poor away run of four straight defeats but because of their recent poor away displays; in combination with all the rest. Burnley haven’t scored a single goal in over 270 minutes of away play, not since their 5-3 stuffing at West Ham, and we don’t think for one minute that their blunt scoring habit will die young at Old Trafford this Saturday in a game where clear cut chances will be few and far between.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.18 PaddyPower

There is nothing in United’s form to say that this will be a romp but Burnley have been a poor away outfit throughout the first half of the season, avoiding defeat in just one of their ten away outings at the mid-way point. They are conceding a staggering amount of goals when on their travels, averaging 3 a game, and while United haven’t been playing well we still fancy them to stroll through this fixture. A big win would lift the morale of the camp and we expect just that.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.18 PaddyPower

Draw – 7.00 SkyBet

Burnley – 17.00 Boylesports

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Man Utd to WIN to NIL – 1.80 SkyBet

Hull City V Manchester United

Sunday 27^th December – 16:00 GMT

Hull City

League Position: 17th

Recent Form: WDLDL

(Hull City are unbeaten at home in their last six games)

The last time Hull City played the part of host to Manchester United was in the very last fixture of last season. A game which Hull desperately needed to win and United couldn’t care less. United won that day which doesn’t bode at all well for Hull’s chances ahead of this weekend’s clash as The Red Devils are no in desperate need of a win themselves after a pointless weekend. We all know Hull have the weaker squad of the two but can they over roar the current champions by being the hungrier and more determined of the two sides on the day? 

Hull, in our brutal yet honest opinion, aren’t too far off being the worst team in the entire league. They’ve gone from being a dangerous side to face in the early part of last season to pretty much a three point banker. The Tigers have already clashed heads with the remaining three of the so called ‘Big Four’ this season and come away losers on each occasions. However, neither were at The KC stadium and Phil Brown will be hoping that home advantage will close that huge gulf between the two in the class department.  

Hull City were starting to build up a bit of momentum until they were emphatically halted by an inform Aston Villa. Hull have now returned to a familiar win less pattern and are now four games without a win in the league, drawing two and losing two. However, Phil Brown has guided his side to new heights at home of late and his Hull side are unbeaten at The KC in six outings, drawing three and winning three. Their last home defeat came back in mid September so there is. Finally, something to shout about at Hull, especially now they’ve jumped out of the bottom three for the first time in what seems an eternity. 

Their overall form at home hasn’t been too bad (4-3-2), and this unbeaten run they’ve worked so hard for should stand them in good stead against a team which will put their undefeated run to the test. However, Hull were pretty bad in their last home outing, a 0-0 draw with Blackburn, and this has occurred on several occasions this season where Hull simply haven’t bothered to turn up nor shown any endeavour on the pitch. Another lacklustre performance like that would see them wiped off the park so it’s crucial Phil Brown get them fired up for this encounter, although, considering their opponents are Manchester United, that shouldn’t be all that difficult. So you would like to think.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWLWL

(Manchester United haven’t drawn an away game in the league for 19 games)

Although the United ranks have been severely depleted in recent weeks, mainly in the defence department, the current English champions have been gifted a corking pair of fixtures to tide them over during the Christmas period. Most teams would given an arm and a leg for a game with Hull City. While their next match is a home fixture with Wigan Athletic, a team they thumped 5-0 at The DW earlier on, so perhaps all is not as bad as first thought.

A couple of wins for Man Utd could actually see them head into the new year as leaders, although they would need Chelsea to slip up elsewhere. However, with their own form going astray, United can ill-afford to let their mind slip elsewhere as it’s man the battle stations in the United defence. Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher formed an unerring centre back partnership last Saturday in a game where the United defence was torn to pieces. Even Patrice Evra, the only quality defender in the defence that day, was awful, which just goes to show what a lack of leadership at the back does for you. Thankfully, Nemanja Vidic should return to the defence and it won’t come a moment too soon. 

United’s defence maybe at ‘sixes and sevens’ right now but it’s offensive players that have been linked with the club recently. Benfica have apparently turned down a bid for Di Maria, a move which, if completed, would probably spell the end for Portuguese flop, Louis Nani, while Mame Diouf will join United from Molde in Denmark in January. Although it’s always good to boost your numbers, attackers aren’t what United need right now as their defence is crumbling around them.

With the exception of the Wolves game where not only were United playing at home to a dreadful Wolves but also against basically the Wolves reserves, United’s makeshift defence has been found wanting and is now left exposed for all to exploit. Aston Villa didn’t have any problems taking advantage of it at the beginning of the month and Fulham also obliged at the weekend, smashing Man Utd 3-0 at Craven Cottage. Their heaviest defeat since their 4-1 humbling by Liverpool at Old Trafford last season. That emphatic defeat can only hinder what will be a Unite dressing room short of morale and confidence but a win over Hull City, along with a clean sheet, would do everyone the world of good.

At Old Trafford, you would fancy United to plug on and chip in with a few wins regardless of what the defence looks like. On the road, however, is where every team is vulnerable no matter what and United head into this fixture precariously exposed. They are fortunate that it’s Hull they are facing but they must take advantage of this generous fixture first. Away from home this season, United have a record of 5-0-4, which clearly shows that The Mighty Red’s can be beaten away from their hunting ground. A 4-0 hammering of West Ham last month is their only away clean sheet in five outings, though, which will surely put a lot of punters off them this Sunday.

Head-to-Head (Last 10):

Hull City W: 0 Manchester United W: 2 Draw: 0

Manchester United have stormed ahead on the h2h counter with victories home and away over Hull City last season. The Tigers did, however, cause United a lot of problems at Old Trafford but were beaten by the United reserves on the final day of the season at The KC stadium.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.45 Coral

If Man Utd were facing any one other than Hull City then we probably wouldn’t have gone for an away win. Hell, even if this was Wolves hosting United we probably would have opted for a draw. That’s how pear shaped the United defence is at the present time. However, Hull City are one of the poorest teams in the league and, although United don’t have a solid basis, they do still have a lethal attacking outlet in Wayne Rooney. The former Everton front man has worked tirelessly for United in recent weeks, often being the highlight for Man Utd in recent weeks, and we fancy Wayne Rooney to be in inspired form this weekend. Hull aren’t without hope, only because United’s defence will be understrength once again, but we can’t see them outscoring United as their defence is just as bad.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 8.50 PaddyPower

Draw – 4.50 SkyBet

Manchester United – 1.45 Coral

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Wayne Rooney FGS – 4.50 Bet365

Manchester United V Aston Villa

Saturday 12th December – 17:30 GMT

TV Coverage: ESPN

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent League Form: WLWWW

With the veterans dropping like flies, it’s been left down to the kids to complete the assignments and they’ve taken to the challenge like a duck out of water. United’s defence has been struck with down within a matter of weeks and Fergie was left with a selection dilemma on both Saturday and Tuesday, although he produced a masterstroke on both occasions. However, it’s back to the bread n’ butter this weekend as Aston Villa come to town in a game where Alex Ferguson could have to contemplate using the likes of Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher as make-shirt defenders for the third game in a row.

The star man on Saturday was Paul Scholes in the 4-1 demolition job of West Ham at Upton Park. If we’re honest, despite the comprehensive score line, Man Utd weren’t worthy of such a large winning margin as West Ham did cause them a lot of problems at the back. If West Ham’s defence was more organised then perhaps United would have been in for a much thorough test. However, they passed the West Ham examination with flying colours and they were even more impressive in their midweek Champions League victory in Germany. United were under the cosh for large parts of the game with VFL Wolfsburg but United were superb on the counter and it was Michael Owen who stole the show with a man of the match performance, scoring a sublime Hat-trick.

Despite losing some key players to injuries, United have still managed to record big wins and that just highlights the character of the United camp, even those who don’t make regular appearances for United. Every single player, even those on the fringe of the starting eleven, proved they are willing to fight for the cause and, with Ferguson still missing a handful of key players, those who served the club well in both Saturday’s and Tuesday’s successes might get another opportunity to shine. Nemanja Vidic is the only defender who looks likely to return to the United defence for Saturday’s clash so it will be another case of all hands on deck once again.

United have now won three league games on the trot and are hot on the heels of Chelsea who slipped up at the weekend. With man Utd winning and Chelsea losing, Ferguson has seen Chelsea’s lead at the top cut down to just two points and he, as well as the United players, will be extra determined to reduce the deficit further. Despite squad numbers failing, United still keep getting the right results and, although they will be without several first team players once again, who would oppose United after their two recent valiant displays. Also, we mustn’t forget that Man Utd are still unbeaten at home all season, with only Sunderland actually leaving Old Trafford with anything to show for their efforts. 6-1-0 is their record at home this season and since Sunderland drew 2-2 with United at Old Trafford, the Red Devils have gone on to win their following three home fixtures, two of which were to Nil.

Aston Villa

League Position: 5th

                                                   Recent League Form: LWDDW

Martin O’Neill will be looking to carry on his good work at the club by possibly landing a memorable result at Old Trafford, after all, who can forget their 3-1 victory over Liverpool, at Anfield, at the beginning of the season. What’s more, a victory over the Red Devils would complete an historic hat-trick after Villa claimed the scalp of Chelsea back in October, albeit coming at Villa Park. Regardless of that home factor, Villa have proved that they do posses the quality required to compete with the big boys this time around and they will look to take full of advantage of United’s recent injury woes.

Villa suffered a huge setback in their bid to climb into the top four when they lost 2-1 to West Ham last month, a team United mashed 4-1 last weekend. However, unlike last season when Villa would have struggled to pick themselves up from such a disappointing result, Villa have gone on a four match unbeaten run, winning two and drawing two. However, a big negative for Villa followers is that Martin O’Neill’s side haven’t won in their last five away encounters, drawing three and losing twice.

Villa’s away record this season stands at 2-3-2, which does show their inconsistent nature when playing away from Villa Park. However, they haven’t been shy in front of goal, wherever they end up, with the young and highly talented Villa attack only failure in front of goal this season coming on the opening day of the season, a 2-0 home defeat to Wigan Athletic. They have since scored in every fixture, 14 in all, and Villa have managed to score in each and every one of their away encounters thus far, seven games in all, eleven games if you take into consideration their away games in the latter part of last season.

Villa pushed United to the limit when the pair last met at Old Trafford. However, perhaps a lack of maturity was Villa’s downfall then as Villa squandered a two goal lead over United last season and were duly punished when ‘that goal’ from Federico Macheda secured all three points in United’s favour. Although the defeat will have been hard to take in for those who were involved for Villa that day, they should take heart from that game as they played out of their skin and they will know they came just mere minutes away from beating the eventual champions.

Head-to-Head (Last 10):

Manchester United W: 9    Aston Villa W: 0   Draw: 0

Villa fans won’t like the look of this h2h between them and Man Utd as they’ve come out second best in nine of their previous ten encounters with the English champions. However, Villa, in a short space of time, have closed the gap on United, holding last season’s winners to a 0-0 draw at Villa Park whilst they come very close to a rare victory at Old Trafford, eventually losing 3-2 after previously leading 2-0.

It’s been seven years since Villa last took a point away from Old Trafford with them, a 1-1 draw way back in 2002. They have since, however, gone on to lose in each of their visits to Old Trafford, losing six on the bounce in Manchester. Villa have also only managed just the four goals in six outings at the so called ‘Stadium of Dreams’ with United putting 18 past them in return.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.50 Boylesports

Alex Ferguson will welcome several key players back into the fold but the ones who have come in have proved worthy replacements. Even when United look to be at their weakest they still come up trumps and we expect nothing else when Aston Villa pay them a visit, although Villa will prove a much sterner test then those United have undergone recently. Villa’s best chance of getting something out of this game will come from their attacking play. They have quality up front to really trouble United but there is still a question mark over their striking partnership of Gabriel Agbonlahor and John Carew as the pair can be lacklustre with their finishing at times.

We would love this game to be a replica of last season’s contest as it was a corker. However, we can’t help but think that it will be an anti-climax, a match where everyone will doubt United but yet they win with ease. They do this on so many occasions and we regrettably feel this could be another one of those moments.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.50 Boylesports

Draw – 4.30 Bet365

Aston Villa – 8.00 Coral

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Manchester United -2 Goals – 3.80 Bet365

VFL Wolfsburg V Manchester United

Tuesday 8^th December – 19:45 GMT

Group B

With United already through but still wanting a first place finish, will the Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, field a strong side for their final Group B outing of the campaign, in Germany?

Wolfsburg, a team who are a win short of securing their place in the last sixteen, will be gunning for success, but will they have what it takes to beat the English champions and secure the win they need that would take them into the next round of the competition for the very first time in their history?

Two very important questions many punters will be asking this week and they are two we can’t give an accurate answer to, unfortunately. However, the answers largely depend on the side Ferguson puts out in Germany. A strong Manchester team would make for a nervy night for the current German champions, who need all three points to guarantee progression, whereas an understrength United side, similar to the one which lost at home to Besiktas in their last outing, would heavily favour the Germans to not only obtain the three points they crave but to also finish top of Group B at the expense of Manchester United.

VFL Wolfsburg

Group B Position: 2^nd

Group B Form: WLDWL

Wolfsburg could have been through already were it not for spurring their chance away in Russia on Match Day 5. The Germans were in the same predicament then, win and progression into the last sixteen was theirs. However, despite taking an early lead through Edin Dzeko, a player who was prolific throughout last season but hasn’t lived up the hype surrounding him since, Wolfsburg couldn’t hang onto their advantage and were soon spending the entire second half on the back foot before having to chase the game with 10 minutes to go. CSKA Moscow won come the end, 2-1 the final score, and that no means Wolfburg’s job is far from done and dusted as they now entertain a Man Utd outfit in a game where they know they must better CSKA’s result elsewhere.

Wolfsburg stormed to the German league title last season, scoring a whopping 80 goals in 34 fixtures. However, they have fallen well off the pace this season and already find themselves eight points adrift of the leaders. The are currently eighth in the German Bundesliga, a million miles off their rare league success of last season, but progression in the worlds greatest club competition would cover over Wolfsburg apparent league cracks as the prospect of facing even better teams and more income looms large. To achieve this, though, they will need to win their first game in four outings. Their last win in all competitions came away at Hoffenheim, a 2-1 success while just days before they were winning Turkey, away at Besiktas. Perhaps the win over their Turkish opponents spurred them on in their following league fixture and with Wolfsburg without a win in three back home, a win over the mighty Manchester United could be just the thing to reignite their season.

Last season, Wolfsburg were renowned and feared amongst every German side in the land for their dangerous attacking play. On occasions, they were literally scoring goals for fun, even against the big boys in the league, but when they were thriving on the euphoria of the moment back then, they are currently drowning in their despair at the present moment. They’ve opened up a win less run of four games and it’s vital they put this bad streak to bed. A fixture with the English champions isn’t one of the more ideal games to achieve this but we expect United to take to the field with some of their fringe players which should greatly enhance Wolfsburg’s chances of getting that illusive win.

Manchester United

Group B Position: 1^st

Group B Form: WWWDL

Sir Alex Ferguson has opted for youth in his previous two champions league outings, both of which have ended in miserable results for the Red Devils, and with injuries hitting Man Utd hard recently, Fergie is expected to make even more changes for the trip to Germany, one which could see a few unfamiliar faces, especially at the back. However, there is still all to play for as top spot within the group still needs cementing and a point would be enough to complete this objective, the minimum Alex Ferguson expects to get from this encounter in Germany.

The big question beforehand was what sort of side would start in Germany, but news that up to eight defenders have been ruled out for the trip to Germany pretty much speaks for itself. Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Wes Brown, Gary Neville, Rafael, Fabio, John O’Shea and Jonny Evans; have all been ruled out for the clash on German soil and have not flown with the rest of the squad. As a result, Michael Carrick, normally a defensive midfielder, should drop back to centre-back just like he did at the weekend, while Darren Gibson, one of United’s starlets who has scored three goals in his last two outings, could also drop back into defensive to form one that looks very makeshift.

With United look extremely bare at the back, Ferguson could feel obliged to field a strong midfield in a bid to minimise the amount of defending his side will have to do during the course of the game. However, were both Carrick and Gibson to drop back into defence then United have lost their best two defensive midfielder’s. Anderson may have to drop back into that role just in front of the back four while Paul Scholes, a player buoyed by his opener against West Ham at the weekend, could also be handed a starting berth in the United midfield. Arguably one the biggest flops the Premiership has ever seen – Nani, looks almost certain to start, while Ryan Giggs won’t play any part after he didn’t travel with the United squad, either. Federico Macheda & Danny Welbeck have been Ferguson’s preferred striking partnership in these types of nothing encounters and they could be paired together once more after a baron 90 minutes against Besiktas last time out, although Michael Owen could replace one of them.

All the task is about United’s team as it’s at the bare bones right now. For a team that apparantly boasts one of thee strongest squads in the country, this game with Wolfsburg really could test that statement to the full. Fergie has had to dip into the reserves to pluck up enough eligible players for this trip but, after fielding two very weak sides in their previous two champions league outings, United could struggle on the night as the kids simply haven’t cut it on the biggest stage.

United’s defence was crumbling on Saturday, with players all around the pitch ready and waiting to fill in for injury prone defenders. However, they did cope stoutly, albeit against West Ham United, and we feel the Germans will provide a shaky and unconvincing United rearguard with a more thorough test. The Germans love to attack and they will be licking their lips at the prospect of facing Manchester United, and not too many sides have said that in the past.

Match Verdict:- VFL Wolfsburg to WIN – 2.20 Bet365

United’s defensive problems are too much for us to ignore and against a strong offensive Wolfsburg, United should come unstuck. The Germans did actually give the United defence a going over at Old Trafford, and that defence consisted of both Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, so God only knows what they’ll do to a defence that consists of Michael Carrick and Darren Gibson. Wolfsburg for us in a game where they have to win and one which they should win.

Match Odds:

VFL Wolfsburg – 2.20 Bet365

Draw – 3.40 SkyBet

Manchester United – 3.75 VCbet

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Edin Dzeko FGS – 7.00 Ladbrokes

Manchester United V Everton

Kick-off: Saturday 21st November – 17:30 GMT

Venue: Old Trafford

TV Coverage: ESPN

Manchester United

League Position: 3rd

Recent Form: DWLWL

Sir Alex Ferguson usually comes out on top in the ‘Fergie Versus Moyes’ affair and Saturday shouldn’t be no different. Although the Red Devils did lose their last game before the break, losing 1-0 at Chelsea, they were given a small lifeline in the International break which has allowed them the chance to mull over what actually went wrong. What went wrong exactly? – Well, let’s just say luck wasn’t on United’s side… for once! 

Ferguson was bitterly disappointed with the final result at Chelsea but he was more distressed with some of the referring decisions, surprise-surprise. In our honest opinion, the ref didn’t have a too bad game and it’s United who only had themselves to blame after failing to convert the chances they did create after dominating throughout the course of the 90 minutes. Unlike their trip to Anfield last month, United showed no fear at The Bridge, taking the game by the scruff of the neck, controlling large periods of the game and created most of the decent opportunities. Although the result won’t have pleased a single United fan nor their grumpy manager, the performance was a a big positive as United had performed very poorly in their opening two encounters against the ‘Big Four’.  

The United players must now put that defeat to Chelsea to one side and concentrate on a tough fixture with Everton, a fixture they should win though. The last three meetings at Old Trafford have gone the way of the home side, and with United still boasting an unbeaten record at home this season (5-1-0), the Red Devils should probably win at a cantor, although Fergie will probably send me a message of displeasure for my comments. After all, we mustn’t forget Fergie’s jibe at Benitez for calling Everton a ‘small club’.

Manchester United at Old Trafford this season have been clinical rather than impressive. Five wins from six, the only blip being their 2-2 draw with Sunderland, of which they scraped a point out of the game. Two big sides have already fallen at the home of the Red Devils, with Arsenal (2-1) & Man City (4-3), both outplaying United to some extent but yet still ending up on the losing side. However, several teams have kinda shown this season that if you can defend stoutly at the home of United, and take your chances, then points are there for the taking. Sunderland exposed United last month, although, Everton’s defending has been far from satisfactory this season so perhaps this rule of thumb isn’t applicable this weekend.

Everton

League Position: 12th

Recent Form: DDLDW

With a relatively small squad, it was always going to be a big ask for David Moyes & Everton to replicate their end of season finish of last year – 5th position. However, not even the wildest of punters would have predicted the abysmal start Everton fans have had to endure up till this stage, with the Toffees found floundering in 12^th position, nearer the bottom of the league then the top. A trip to Old Trafford is never an ideal recipe for an early season recovery but perhaps this could be the game they need to kick boost their lacklustre season.

A point would be a fabulous result for Everton, and we feel that is what David Moyes will set his sights on, on Saturday. Firstly, he will need to insert some steel and resilience into that back four as they’ve been far too vulnerable for our liking. However, their offence is actually looking pretty good, especially Louis Saha, a former United employee, who has seven for the season, scoring in two of his last three league appearances. Perhaps the competition for places is now having the positive affect David Moyes was hoping for as injuries to forward thinking players has restricted Moyes’ forward options.

Everton’s away record thus far isn’t ideal, winning just the two, those coming against Portsmouth (0-1) & West Ham (1-2), although, the West Ham victory was their most recent and that victory could have rekindled their away spirits after previously losing on three of their last four outings. They don’t give too much away when on the road, although, they struggle to keep clean sheets at the same time. Their away goal record on the road stands at 6-7, with only Portsmouth failing to score against a travelling Everton, but only Fulham has managed to score more than once.

David Moyes is still without a whole host of players but that’s nothing new. He has had to contend with injuries to some of his key and influential players for some time now. The midfield is where Everton do look extremely light, with Phil Neville, Leon Osman and Steven Pienaar all out, and all would have been starters. Mainly the former two, are great at keeping hold of the ball and supplying the forwards and without them, Everton will and have struggled to compete in the centre of the park. That will be the case on Saturday, we have no doubts about that.

Head-to-Head:

Manchester United W: 6 Everton W: 1 Draws: 3 

United have generally enjoyed the arrival of Everton and have won the previous three encounters at Old Trafford, winning 1-0 last season, and 2-1 and 3-0 the two seasons gone before. However, Everton did hold United to a 0-0 draw in the FA Cup last season so they do undoubtedly have the credentials to frustrate a usual rampant Manchester United at Old Trafford, although, the chances of that happening this Saturday do look slimmer than ever.

Everton’s only victory over United came back in the 2004/2005 season, that coming by the way of a 1-0 win at Goodison Park, which, is unfortunately not the setting for this weekends fixture.

Match Verdict:- Manchester United to Win – 1.40 BlueSquare

As Kevin Keegan once put it “We would love it if we beat them”, although, I’m no Everton fan so why I’m using that quote is beyond reasoning. However, from a Liverpool fans perspective, we would be thrilled if our local ‘chums’ would put one over on United, but we just can’t see it happening. The Everton midfield looks out muscled before the game has even kicked off, while United have been far too consist on home turf for us to have a wager on them slipping up. Man Utd have already lost too much ground on Chelsea and they can ill-afford any more slip ups. A home win for us.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 1.40 BlueSquare

Draw – 4.50 SkyBet

Everton – 9.50 Boylesports

Football-Betting.co.uk Value Tip: Manchester United to WIN to NIL – 2.38 888sport

——————————————————————————————————————–

Full-Time: Manchester United 3-0 Everton

Goalscorer(s): Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick, Antonio Valencia (Manchester United)

Chelsea V Manchester United

Sunday 8^th November – 16:00 GMT

Sky Sports 1 & HD

Chelsea

League Position: 1st

Recent League Form: LWLWW

With the Champions League now out of the way until after Christmas, qualification anyway, Carlo Ancelotti can now concentrate of the league starting with an intriguing home tie with second placed, Manchester United. Chelsea will have home advantage on their side, which is a big plus, while their form heading into this eagerly awaited contest isn’t too bad, either, so there is no excuse were Chelsea not to win on Saturday.

The pressure will be on Carlo Ancelotti to land the win over United that their fans crave after they failed to get the better of United in the two league contests last season. However, Chelsea do boast a very strong record over United at Stamford Bridge as they remain unbeaten in all competitions against the Red Devils in ten meetings at the Bridge, although, just four of those were wins for the home side. With a new manager at the helm their could be a change in the winds as the former AC Milan manager ploys his next master plan against the side breathing down their necks.

Chelsea have been extremely impressive at Stamford Bridge this season, in fact, they’ve been close to unbeatable there for years now. So far, Chelsea have won all five league games at home, victories over Hull City (2-1), Burnley (3-0), Tottenham (3-0), Liverpool (2-0) & Blackburn (5-0). Some of their results have been very impressive, indeed, with the wins over Tottenham & Liverpool the stand out victories. However, it’s been their impenetrable defence that has caught our eye the most, with Chelsea conceding just one goal at home all season. Surprisingly, Hull City are the only team to score at The Bridge this season but some very talented teams have gone their and failed miserably so the gauntlet has been set for the travelling United team.

Chelsea, along with Arsenal, are the side to catch right now. They’ve lost just two games in eleven outings, both were away from home. Their goal tally at home stands at an outstanding 15-1, with the Blues averaging 3 goals-a-game at home, and they boast two of the leagues deadliest strikers at current in Didier Drogba (9 League Goals) & Nicolas Anelka (3 League Goals). The former looks unplayable at the moment and it will be interesting to see how a lax United defence copes with the Ivorian’s pace and strength.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent League Form: WDWLW

In a normal season, United would go close to favouritism here despite this being an away encounter. However, in our eyes anyway, Chelsea are the comfortable favourites to notch up yet another win at home as United’s early performances, both in Europe and in the league have been well below par. However, United are renowned for their ability come good in the big games and that is why Chelsea are still available at such a handsome price. 

The Red Devils are back to their old tricks again, like the devils they are, winning games without playing the slightest bit good. They’ve won eight out of eleven thus far, although, United were well below their best in about half of those wins, especially the ones over Arsenal & Man City. However, those results over the teams we just mentioned just highlighted how easily United can turn on the class when required against the big boys. Although, on the same token, they didn’t perform at Anfield two weeks ago and, when you consider that their victories over both Arsenal & Man City were at Old Trafford, United do look a tad vulnerable heading down to London.

United’s away record this season stands at 3-0-2, with a draw nowhere to be seen. However, a draw would be a good result for them as they’ve never fared too well at Stamford Bridge in recent visits. Their ‘mediocre’ performances of late would also indicate that Sir Alex would probably settle for a point but his intentions were clear on Tuesday when he put out a makeshift side against CSKA Moscow in the Champions League, one that performed extremely poor on the night and were mighty fortunate not to have lost.

Manchester United really are a side you love to hate. When others play bad they generally end up losing. That’s not the case with United and it will be typical for them to put in another big shift at the Bridge on Sunday. Wayne Rooney & Dimitar Berbatov is Fergie’s first choice striking partnership but neither have hit the ground running in all fairness. Rooney does actually have seven goals to his name but he’s hardly been in glistening form, while Berbatov has only started to show glimpses of form recently. However, for United to get anything out of this trip to Chelsea, they will need their front two on top of their game and, for our liking, they just aren’t consistent enough as a duet.

Head-to-Head:

Chelsea W: 4 Manchester United W: 3 Draws: 3

Chelsea just edge the head-to-head counter between the two giants of English football but Chelsea do boast a far superior record over United then it may seem at first glance. At Stamford Bridge, the home of the Blues, Chelsea haven’t lost in seven encounters with the Red Devils, with four of those coming by wins for Chelsea. The pair did play out a tight and nervy 1-1 draw last season but United thumped Chelsea 3-0 at Old Trafford in the reverse meeting. We’re sure the Chelsea players that started that day will be eager to make amends for that poor showing at Old Trafford and provide United with a humbling of their own.

We wouldn’t want to be on the goals in this clash, even if PaddyPower did stop being stingy and handed us a freebie. Four of the previous six encounters at the Bridge have ended in low scoring games and two of the last three have both ended in the same fate, both finishing in a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

Key Player(s):

Van Der Sar – The former Dutch shot-stopper has bags of big match experience but he has only just returned to the United fray after a hand injury and he was found wanting on Tuesday night when United drew 3-3 with an average CSKA Moscow. Der Saar was at fault for two of United’s goal, with his indecisive decision making the main reason for his poor showing but he also shown signs that he was very uncomfortable in front of what has been a patchy United back four. Rio Ferdinand is an injury concern and that ‘s bad news for Van Der Sar as it means he will come under heavy fire in this game against the leagues most prolific striking duo at this moment in time. A big game is needed from their number and he certainly has the capacity to deliver on the big stage.

Didier Drogba – I don’t think we’ve ever seen the Ivorian play as good as he’s playing right now. His early run of goals in the league seems to have lifted his confidence and he quite literally is unstoppable. Drogba wasn’t too far off leaving the club during the summer but he has proved a worthy piece of business, keeping hold of him, as his goalscoring return in the league shows – 9 goals in 11 outings and, perhaps with the exception of possibly Fernando Torres, it the hottest property in the Premiership right now. He will be a right handful for the United defence, one that couldn’t keep tabs on Fernando Torres two weeks ago, and it will be interesting to see if Drogba can terrorise the United defence just like he did against Liverpool earlier in the season.

Match Verdict: Chelsea to WIN – 2.10 PaddyPower

The simple fact that United tend to come good whenever they face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge does bring about some reservations from myself but Chelsea, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, appear to have found another gear this season. Didier Drogba is unplayable at this moment in time, Frank Lampard is regaining his form of old, while Deco is showing once again how his intricate little mind works on a football pitch. Chelsea just look too good and too strong for a United side that have been earning too many fortunate wins. They rode their luck against both Arsenal & Man City but came undone on their first away encounter with a ‘Top Four’ side, and we expect them to happen again.

Match Odds:

Chelsea – 2.10 PaddyPower

Draw – 3.40 SkyBet

Manchester United – 4.00 Bet365

 Update: The result of Chelsea v Manchester United was 1-0 (goal by Terry)

Manchester United V Birmingham City

Kick-Off: Sunday 16th August – 13:30 GMT
Venue: Old Trafford

Manchester United kick-off their title defence in front of an expected capacity crowd at Old Trafford against The Championships bridesmaid. Many are doubting Man Utd’s title credentials after losing their prized asset during the summer but they couldn’t of asked for an easier opening day fixture. They’ve enjoyed playing Birmingham, especially at home, and United should wrap up their first three points of the season here as they bid to win their fourth successive league title.

United fans have been forced to wave goodbye to the often brilliant, sometimes fall over at the slightest touch, but forever always an arrogant, smarmy git that is Portuguese World Player of the Year – Christiano Ronaldo. Despite all the love we’ve given him he was undoubtedly the star of the Premiership for the past two seasons. The United line-up will not be looked upon with as much fear now that the skilful maestro has moved to pastures new in a bid to win yet more glory in Spain. However, United did cash in big time when they received £80million although their idea of a replacement is Antonio Valencia. Of course, there are very few that could fill such boots but that is some step down despite the potential of the kid.

Nevertheless, the show must go on as they say. Sir Alex Ferguson has also brought in the apparently ‘not so injury prone’ injury prone Michael Owen in a bid to make up for the goals they’ve lost in the departure of Ronaldo. Providing Owen does stays fit, and that’s a huge ‘IF’, he could be a sweet piece of business. However, the limelight will now firmly be on Wayne Rooney as he aims to carry this United side to victory this season. He will now be the main man at United and will thrive on the pressure mounted upon his shoulders throughout the course of the season.

Alex McLeish has his own Ecuadorian star in Christian Benitez although this South American appears to have eaten all the pies over the summer. Unlike Antonio Valencia, Benitez has failed in his bid to make the start of the season due to his lack of match fitness. That means the omen to score the goals early on will rest with Veteran Kevin Philips as he enters 36 years-of-age. Philips notched up 14 goals for Birmingham last season and finished as the clubs top goalscorer. When you consider that some of his appearances were from the bench then that doesn’t bode too well for the other strikers at the club.

Birmingham do have a fighting chance of surviving the season but against the ‘top four’ we feel they will be found wanted. They have the ability to grind down opponents but will find it extremely difficult to keep up with the bigger sides for the full 90 minutes. Their biggest problem will be goals. With Benitez not fit, it’s not wise to pin your hopes on Philips producing the goods. We do actually have faith in them keeping it relatively tight at the back but it’s the strikers where our concerns lye.

Head-to-Head: Manchester United W: 8 Birmingham W: 0 Draws: 2

Birmingham have never enjoyed this fixture, especially at Old Trafford. ‘The Red Devils’ usually win at home without even breaking a sweat with Birmingham failing to score at Old Trafford in their previous five visit in the Premiership.

Match Verdict: This looks pretty straightforward for the champions so we won’t babble on. A United victory is very short indeed but it’s hard to envisage United not winning this match comfortably let alone winning it outright. Birmingham will probably spend most their time on the back foot whilst attempting to play counter-attacking football. The small glimmer of hope for them is that United’s number 1 goalkeeper is out injured so they may sneak their first goal against United at Old Trafford but taking a point seems a little far fetched.

Match Odds:

Manchester United – 2/9 PaddyPower
Birmingham City – 18/1 Boylesports
Draw – 5/1 Bet365

Football-Betting.co.uk Tip: Wayne Rooney to score anytime – 5/4 Bet365