Prediction: Tottenham vs Manchester United

3rd March 2012

Tottenham could need some time to recover from the disappointing defeat in the North London derby, although a good result against Manchester United would certainly help Spurs return to the right track. The Red Devils needed a little help from their veterans to beat Norwich at Carrow Road, but the Wayne Rooney’s return comes at a perfect time for Sir Alex Ferguson.

Tottenham go into this game on the back of the disappointing defeat to Arsenal, but everything could have been different if only Spurs had hold on to their two-goal lead at the Emirates for a while longer. Harry Redknapp’s side allowed their opponents to equalize before half-time and were then hammered in the second period of the match. While it is never a good thing to record a heavy defeat to your arch rivals, the 5-2 setback at the Emirates hasn’t had such a big effect on Tottenham’s position in the standings, seeing that Spurs remain well clear of their top 4 rivals. Nevertheless, another defeat could put extra pressure on the team and that is why the hosts need to give their very best in the clash against the reigning Premier League champions. Harry Redknapp remains optimistic about Gareth Bale’s hamstring problem, so the Welshman could start, but new England captain Scott Parker is out through suspension. Rafael van der Vaart, Kyle Walker and Ledley King are back in contention.

Manchester United remained close to title rivals Manchester City thanks to the narrow win over high-flying Norwich, but the Red Devils were on the verge of a major setback at Carrow Road. The tie looked to be heading for a draw when Grant Holt canceled out Paul Scholes’ late into the game, but Ryan Giggs, playing his 900th game for the club, came to the rescue, scoring a winner with an outside of the foot deep into injury time. Manchester United veterans once again showed that they are a real asset for Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad and at least one of them will be in the starting line-up at White Hart Lane. Wayne Rooney is expected to return from a throat infection to help his side in what could be one of the most important games of the season, but Tom Cleverley and Antonio Valencia are definitely out. Chris Smalling is unlikely to be included after suffering a head injury on international duty.

Conclusion

Tottenham are likely to revert to their positive approach as Spurs are not yet under pressure despite losing to Arsenal last time out, whereas Manchester United have no choice but to go for a win at White Hart Lane. Taking everything into consideration, betting on over 2.5 goals looks like the right thing to do.

Verdict: Over 2.5 goals

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: bet365