And The Robbie Howler Goes To....

EPL PREVIEW

VS

WHEN: 3rd November 2012

WHERE: Old Trafford

KO TIME: 12:45 (20:45 Perth Time)

Manchester v London, The Red Devils v The Gunners, Sir Alex v The Professor, RVP v the whole of Arsenal. Whatever way you look at this game, it’s going to be one not to miss. Two of the most respected managers and clubs in the EPL (and Europe) go head to head in their first match of the 2012/13 season. And, if last season’s meeting is anything to go by –along with their recent form and history involving the RVP transfer saga, it should promise plenty of entertainment on and off the pitch.

Both teams had wins last time out in the league, although in midweek, Arsenal fared the better of the two in the Capital One Cup fixtures. Their 7-5 (AET) comeback victory against Reading may go down as one of the best this season, if not in recent history. United were beaten 5-4 (AET) at Chelsea, who seemed to atone for their loss on the weekend, and their bad luck with some calls made by the referee during the game.

TEAM NEWS
United should welcome back Smalling to the first team setup after his lengthy absence with injury. With Ferdinand and Evans fit however, he’s likely to be on the bench. Lindegaard should be 100% fit again after sitting out last match against Chelsea. Kagawa, Vidic and Jones are still out, although the latter should be back next week for the meeting with Aston Villa.

Arsenal should be boosted with the news that Wilshere came out of last week’s game against QPR unscathed. He should start again for the Gunners. They may also welcome back Diaby, Gervinhoand Oxlade-Chamberlain to the team after their injuries. Fabianski, Gibbs, Szczesny and Rosicky are still missing.

PREDICTIONThe corresponding fixture last season finished 8-2 in favour of United. Arsenal and their fans will aim to ensure that lightning doesn’t strike twice this time out. With Wilshere back, Arsenal have received a big boost to their title aspirations and will go into the game with plenty of confidence that they can cause an upset at Old Trafford. United will look to continue their good form in the league and get back to winning ways after their loss in midweek. Expect goals galore and some fireworks on the pitch with Van Persie facing Arsenal for the first time since his move to United in the summer. If he can keep calm and composed with the occasion, and expected boos and taunts given to him by the Gunners faithful, he may well haunt his old club.


MY PREDICTION: MANCHESTER UNITED 3-2 ARSENAL