Despite Manchester United’s incredible 13 years unbeaten record against Birmingham’s Aston Villa, the Red Champions don’t go in today’s game too much as the strong favourites.

Martin O’Neil’s side are only the second team this year, and the third in all, to beat the Gunners at the Emirates – after loosing twice in a row to Newcastle and Middlesbrough respectively.
The Premier League’s English Top Scorer, Gabriel Agbonlahor, is the Star Man of the Match after powering his team to a famous 2-0 victory last weekend against Arsenal – Villa’s first win over the Gunners in up to 15 years.

As for Man United, they have just commenced a new winning track with a resounding 5-0 victory against Stoke City after suffering defeat in the hands of Arsenal, which Aston Villa beat.

Gary Neville is out with a groin injury while Wes Brown is also in the sidelines for an estimated 4 weeks. Berbatov too is amongst the list of injured players after being hurt during Bulgaria’s match in midweek. This could give the opportunity to Tevez – who is subject to a move to Real – to start tonight.
Ferdinand, Rooney and Fletcher all missed midweek internationals and should be able to feature while Paul Scholes is still not included in the team though being present in training.

Nani and Cristiano Ronaldo return to domestic action after a humiliating 6-2 defeat to Anderson’s Brazil earlier on Wednesday and they will want to put this story behind them.

Manchester United have been inconsistent away from home this season, drawing 1-1 at Goodison Park and loosing 2-1 at the Emirates in their most recent outings.

The Red Champions are in a position where any more slip-ups will leave the title race open to rampant armies Chelsea and Liverpool only.

Written by: Angela Asante