Manchester United Vs. Wolves Preview: Premier League

Manchester United faces Wolves at Old Trafford in a Premier League encounter which has assumed huge significance for the champions.

The Red Devils were eliminated from the Uefa Champions League, a competition in which they were finalists last season, on Wednesday after a 2-1 defeat to FC Basel. Sir Alex Ferguson will now attempt to wield his side through the unfamiliar territory of the Europa League.

While the inevitable headlines along the lines of calamity at Man United spreads, it has to taken into context. Sir Alex is sure to have given his team a sound talking-to and there is no better fixture to quash budding 'disaster' headlines than at home against Wolves.

The visitors are led by an experienced manager in Mick McCarthy and he will expect a backlash. However, he will also know that an early goal will send the jitters down Old Trafford, and he could set his team up to hit United on the counter.

The stats don't make a good read for Wolves though. They haven't managed a win at Old Trafford since 1980.

It remains a crucial fixture for United, purely due to their failure in midweek. However, they're still one of the favourites to take the Premiership this season, and with Man City facing two seemingly tough fixtures - against Chelsea on Monday before Arsenal - United will look to grasp at any point dropped by their neighbours.

Team News

Manchester United lost captain Nemanja Vidic for the season, during the 2-1 loss at Basel, meaning youngster Phil Jones will start at center-back. Michael Carrick returns from suspension, while Dimitar Berbatov is doubtful with an ankle injury.

Wolves midfielder Karl Henry has served his suspension and could start on Saturday. Center-back Jody Craddock is doubtful with a hamstring injury, meaning Roger Johnson could make a return to first team after being dropped recently.

Match Fact

Wolves haven't managed a win at Old Trafford since 1980 with Man United winning three of the last four league meetings between the two sides.

Prediction

Contrary to widespread headlines, expect a reaction from Manchester United. A 2-0 win for the home side looks likely.