Man Utd vs Stoke betting preview

The Premier League returns this weekend after an international break. Stoke travel to Old Trafford on Saturday to play a stuttering Manchester United. Already four points behind Leaders Chelsea, United will be looking for all three points however this will be a challenge against a strong Stoke side. Choose a free bet for this match in our betting offers section.

Manchester United – 2nd

After scoring in both internationals for England, Wayne Rooney will be looking to carry on his form in the Premier League. Combined with the fact he is yet to open his goal account in the league this season, Rooney will be eager to score alongside the goal machine Robin Van Persie who will look to keep the pressure on the league leaders, Chelsea. With injuries at the back, United have been leaking goals both home and away, recently conceding three in their 3-2 defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford. With the loss of Nemanja Vidic, United may have to recall Chris Smalling who had required surgery on a broken metatarsal in July. Ashley Young could also return to the team after not playing since August.

Stoke City – 12^th

Prior to the international break, Tony Pullis’ team battled hard at Anfield to gain a well deserved point against a stuttering Liverpool side. Once again they will be looking to cause some sort of an upset at Old Trafford. Although the Potters have had a challenging calendar to contend with, they have drawn five of their first seven games, notably two of those points picked up at home to Arsenal and Manchester City. Peter Crouch is Stoke’s top scorer this season with five goals and it will be interesting to see how United’s defence cope with the Englishman’s height. Michael Owen also returns to his former club, however he has yet to figure majorly for his new team.

After a disappointing loss to Tottenham a couple of weeks ago, Sir Alex Ferguson will be looking for a response from his players. However with question marks over who to start in goal and with Nemanja Vidic out with another injury, we could see goals at either end. The threat of Crouch and Stoke’s physical presence it will be a contested tie however United will be looking to pick up all three points.

Manchester United to win 3-1, 10/1 On William Hill

Stoke to score in first 10 minutes, 12/1 on Sky Bet

Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick, 16/1 on Betfred

Read more betting previews for upcoming matches in our betting tips section. If you fancy a free bet for this match, or any upcoming event, check out the £25 free bet offer from Blue Square.

Written by Kelvin Morgan

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