EPL Preview (16/8/2010 ) : Manchester United v Newcastle United

Manchester United vs Newcastle United

At Old Trafford
Kick-off: 20.00 BST
TV: Live, Sky Sports 1.

Having narrowly lost their Premier League title to Chelsea last season, Manchester United begin their quest to regain top spot in the land with a visit from newly-promoted Newcastle United. Chelsea's big win over West Bromwich 6-0 it would seem to be motivation for foster children Ferguson to win the game against Newcastle tomorrow. Rooney et inevitably also be a big win for Chelsea on goal difference with a not so distant.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Manchester United
The Mexican’s impressive World Cup showing and pre-season goalscoring exploits means the Old Trafford faithful will be looking forward to welcoming the Red Devils’ new striker to the ranks. Whilst he is unlikely to start the game, he may be introduced at some point and will no doubt fancy his chances of a debut goal in the Premier League against one of the top flight’s new boys.

Newcastle United
The midfielder was the Championship’s Player of the Season and Newcastle will look to his battling qualities and experience at Old Trafford. Of course the former Bolton Wanderers man was also amongst the goals last season, netting 18 times, and against a home defence missing several key members he may prove a threat.

PREDICTION

This could be a tough opener for the home side who have struggled on the opening day in recent seasons and will have some of their World Cup stars still some way from top form. However, Newcastle’s record at Old Trafford is poor and the extra quality the home side possess should mean they have enough to secure a narrow victory.

POSSIBLE FORMATION

Manchester United (4-4-2)
Van der Sar;
O’Shea, Vidic, Evans, Fabio;
Valencia, Carrick, Scholes, Park;
Owen, Rooney.

Newcastle United (4-4-2)
Harper;
Perch, Jose Enrique, Coloccini, Williamson;
Routledge, Guthrie, Barton, Nolan;
Gutiérrez, Carroll.

Referee: C Foy. Matches (last season): 26. R: 69.Y: 2.


More about Manchester United Preview Click Here