Sunday 2 September, KO 16.00

These two sides last met in the FA Cup two seasons ago, with Manchester United running out 2-1 winners and no doubt Sir Alex Ferguson would settle for the same outcome on Sunday.

United are without Wayne Rooney, who will miss at least four weeks with a gash on his thigh, which he suffered in last week’s win against Fulham.

Match Odds

Southampton 4/1
Draw 3/1
Manchester United 1/2

United are not that short in the odds at 1/2 for the win, which seems surprising considering Wigan were easy victors at St Marys last week, and the -1 handicap is a good value 7/5.

Robin van Persie (pictured) is set to start up front again for United. The Dutch striker opened his account last Saturday in imperious fashion and is the first goal scorer favourite at 4/1 – again a good price.

It’s hard to see United slipping up in the league twice in three games and for all their endeavor against the Blue half of Manchester on the opening weekend, Southampton look set to struggle this season.

 

Tipster’s Best Bets

Manchester United -1 @ 7/5 with William Hill
Van Persie to score first @ 4/1 with bet365

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