Mark Hughes’ team have been Jekyll and Hyde this season, showing glimpses of brilliance and ineptitude in equal measure. They made short work of Arsenal on Saturday, cruising to a 3-0 victory, yet they were unable to beat a ten-man Newcastle team last month, despite taking an early lead. Should they really be priced as big as 100/30 (William Hill) to beat their arch-rivals on Sunday afternoon?
You’ll do well to find even money about Manchester United ahead of the kick-off, with bet365 currently offering 10/11 that the champions win the derby. However, they have failed to take maximum points from five of their seven away games this season, with recent draws at Everton and Aston Villa indicating that the champions haven’t yet hit top form. It’s a 5/2 chance (Paddy Power) that the clash ends all square this weekend.
City had the upper hand in derby matches last season, winning at Eastlands and Old Trafford. They’re 10/1 (Blue Square) to repeat the 1-0 scoreline that they enjoyed in front of their own fans last term, and a massive 80/1 (William Hill) that they repeat last Saturday’s 3-0 win! United can be backed at 15/2 (Sportingbet) to win by a solitary goal.
The home supporters will be pinning their hopes on two players who seem to be scoring the lion’s share of their team’s goals at the moment. Stephen Ireland sent his team into the lead against the Gunners and the midfielder is an eye-catching 14/1 (Betfred) to find the net first in this match. Similarly, Robinho is having a season to remember, and totesport offer 7/1 about the tricky Brazilian.
Cometh the hour, cometh the man and Cristiano Ronaldo will be keen to silence the noisy home crowd. In addition to the 5/1 (Skybet) about him scoring the first goal, Blue Square offer 11/8 that he scores at any point in the match. If City’s defence is in a typically generous mood, this could be like taking candy off a baby.