Match Preview: Bolton vs. Manchester United

Competition: Premier League
Venue: Rebook Stadium
Time: 17:30

Today Manchester United travel to the Rebook Stadium, where they take on an in-form Bolton side, who currently sit 10th in the league table. Ferguson’s men will be hoping to continue their 100% start to the new Premier League campaign.

Team news

In Sir Alex Ferguson’s press conference Friday morning, he admitted Antonio Valenica could be set for a return after recovering from an ankle injury he picked up during the Copa America with Ecuador. In the 8-2 victory over Arsenal, United fans welcomed back Javier Hernandez who suffered a blow to the head in training during the summer. The little pea is expected to start today with Danny Welbeck being a definite absentee. That brings us on to Welbeck, who is making a fast recovery. The England international picked up a hamstring injury against Arsenal, but will be back training Monday morning. Nemanja Vidic is expected to be out for an added three weeks, whereas Rafeal could be out for another month.

Some newspapers claim David de Gea could be ‘rested’ for the match, giving Anders Lindegaard his first chance of the season. This discussion provided a few sparks on Twitter this morning, so it’s probably best if we leave it to Sir Alex…

The Trotters may be without Stuart Holden and Samuel Ricketts. However, Owen Coyle will probably give new loan signings Gael Kakuta and David Ngog their first run out for the club. Most of us will know Ngog from Liverpool. Expect a few ‘you scouse b*stard’ chants if/when he gets a touch of the ball.

Players to watch out for

Wayne Rooney has 5 goals from 3 games this season, so Bolton defender Gary Cahill will definitely be kept busy if Javier Hernandez partners the England international up front for United. Wazza is just one goal behind Edin Dzeko, who is currently leading the charts. Kevin Davies is certainly one I’ll be watching throughout the game. The 34-year-old is known for his physical and aerial strength, therefore the media reckon he could prove to be a nightmare for our young Spaniard between the sticks. Ferguson also made it clear that de Gea didn’t get enough protection at West Brom earlier this season, so watch out referee! Ashley Young goes without saying – he’s been exceptional since joining The Reds.

Predicted starting eleven

David de Gea; Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans, Phil Jones, Patrice Evra; Luis Nani, Tom Cleverley, Anderson, Ashley Young; Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez.

Overall prediction

Bolton are no pushovers, therefore it’s not going to be easy for United. However, I’m predicting a 3-0 victory, with Rooney  scoring one or two.

More Stories Bolton Manchester United