Arsenal v Man Utd Tip

I can’t help feeling this heavyweight contest has come at the wrong time for Arsenal - much as it did at the start of the season when they were demolished 8-2 at Old Trafford. The old frailties have returned for the Gunners, if indeed they ever went away. In contrast, this is the stage of the season when Sir Alex Ferguson’s side really gets down to business. At best odds of 13/8 (PaddyPower) i’m backing a Manchester United away win.

The team news is likely to be giving Arsene Wenger sleepless nights. He will have up to 11 players missing in action, including several key men. Thierry Henry may well miss out with a calf strain, Thomas Vermaelan is a major doubt and Mikel Arteta is definitely unavailable. It looks like the old story - if United keep Van Persie relatively quiet then they will surely triumph.

The Red Devils settled a few old scores and really looked to get on track with that 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium a fortnight ago. The subsequent 3-0 league success over Bolton was routine, and featured a comeback goal for Paul Scholes. Meanwhile Arsenal have lost their last two away games at Fulham and Swansea.

The reigning champions are 12 points ahead of the Gunners for a reason. Betting on the away win simply looks like common sense.