Prediction: Blackburn vs Manchester United

2nd April 2012

Manchester United can create a five-point cushion at the Premier League summit by claiming maximum points at Ewood Park and no wonder struggling Blackburn are considered major underdogs in this clash. However, all the Rovers need to do is remember the 3-2 triumph at Old Trafford and they will see this is by no means a mission impossible.

Having been constantly involved in a difficult relegation tussle over the last few years, Blackburn players know all to well what it feels like to be fighting for their lives. Rovers slipped into the bottom three early into the season and they spent a big part of the league campaign there, but a good run of results saw them finally escape the relegation zone, even if they are now tied on points with two sides from the bottom three. Back to back victories over Wolverhampton and Sunderland acted as a major confidence boost before the season finale, but Rovers could do nothing to avoid defeat to Bolton last weekend and are now again in a precarious position. Steve Kean seems to have found his best starting 11 and after fielding exactly the same side in last three games, he is unlikely to make any changes to the starting line-up for the Manchester United game. The aforementioned 3-2 win at Old Trafford can give the hosts something to hope for, although the Red Devils appear to be in much better shape now than they were at the time.

After starting the squad rebuilding process in the summer, Manchester United were always going to have problems this season, but nobody could predict that the team would suffer early elimination from the Champions League, Europa League, Carling Cup and FA Cup. However, in spite of the disappointing exits from major domestic and European competition, nobody is talking about a failed season for United and there is only one reason for that – team’s Premiership campaign. Even with Manchester City spending piles of cash to bring world’s best players to Etihad, it is Manchester United who are leading the title race in the Premier League, and they’ve now got a chance to go five points clear at the top of the standings. The Red Devils are in buoyant mood after winning last six league games and nine of last ten, and I seriously doubt they will miss such a good opportunity to make a giant step towards the league title. The visitors are boosted by the return of Rio Ferdinand, but Nani, Vidic, Fletcher, Owen and Anderson remain sidelined.

Conclusion

Blackburn Rovers may have shown some improvement of late, but Steve Kean’s side don’t look like they can stop United from winning this game. The visitors will be looking to put their mark on the game from the off, and backing United to lead at half time and win the game looks like a very good option here.

Verdict: Away win/Away win

Best Odds: 1/1

Bookmaker: Paddy Power