Manchester United meet Big Four opponents at Old Trafford for the first time this season. The Red Devils have a fine record at home to Big Four opposition in the Premier League, winning seven times in nine encounters since the start of 2005/06. United were also highly impressive against all opposition in 2008, winning 15/17. Moreover, Manchester United have won two and drawn one of the last three Premier League games between these two teams at Old Trafford, leading at the break 1-0 in all three.

For their part, Chelsea have faired poorly on the road against Big Four opposition since Jose Mourinho departed. The Blues have failed to win away to Big Four opponents in six attempts in the Premier League since the Special One left Stamford Bridge, trailing at the break on all six occasions, though recovering a point in three. Though Chelsea have been hugely impressive on the road against all opposition in 2008, winning 15 in 19 unbeaten games, the Blues did not meet a Big Four side in that period.

This match will have a huge impact on the title ambitions of both clubs and as such a tense affair seems probable. The likelihood of a low-scoring match is underlined by the statistics surrounding this fixture. Chelsea’s last eight Premier League matches on the road against Big Four opponents have featured fewer than three goals whilst the Old Trafford faithful have witnessed two goals or fewer in eight of the last 12 Big Four league clashes. Moreover, only three of Manchester United’s eight home games this season have featured three goals or more. Manchester United are also in the midst of a tremendous defensive run and have not conceded a Premier League goal in their last seven matches, home and away.

Chelsea’s 3-1 victory at Old Trafford rubber-stamped their first title in 50 years; it was also the only match in the Roman Abramovich-era at Old Trafford to settle the +2.5 goals market. Only three of the 11 Premier League clashes, home or away, have featured three goals or more since the Russian billionaire transformed the West London club.

Key stats

• Chelsea have seen 8/8 away games to Big Four end with -2.5 goals
• Manchester United have seen 8/12 -2.5 goals games when hosting a Big Four team since 2004/05

Manchester United look value at 2.30 to deliver a massive blow to Chelsea’s title aspirations, though the -2.5 goals looks a very solid bet and is preferred.

Recommend: -2.5 goals 1.70 Blue Square/Centrebet.