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Manchester United will look to give themselves some breathing space at the top of Group C as Sir Alex Ferguson’s side go up against Benfica in the Champions League at Old Trafford.
United have been quietly going about their business in the Premier League ever since their 6-1 hammering at the hands of cross-city rivals Manchester City, but while their league campaign appears back on track, Ferguson will have more than a few concerns about their inconsistencies in the group stages of the Champions League so far.
Back to back wins against Otelul Galatai have at least given the Scot something to smile about after a slow start which saw the Red Devils drop points against Benfica in their first game in Europe and against Swiss outfit Basel, shipping more than their fair share of goals in the process.
Wayne Rooney had looked a doubt for the game having missed out on two England games during the international break, and while Ferguson admitted that the talented forward had to sit out of training because of a couple of knocks, he should be fit to lead the line at Old Trafford.
United will pin their hopes on Rooney’s renowned forward play to bag the goals that will put them on the verge of qualifying as group winners for the knock out stages, however he may have to go it alone thanks to injuries to one of his regular partners in attack.
Danny Welbeck will miss the game through injury having picked up a muscle strain, and while he may play some part, most likely from the bench, Javier Hernandez is likely to get the nod after his goal secured a precious three points at the weekend against Swansea.
The Mexican international struck up an instant rapport with Rooney when he joined the club and Ferguson will be hoping that partnership ignites fully in order to get the better of a talented Benfica side.
Chris Smalling is injured for the tie while Jonny Evans is also a doubt, while full-back Patrice Evra should be available for selection having overcome a virus.
United were dealt a blow during the week when it was revealed that Tom Cleverly faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, joining Michael Owen in the physio room for the foreseeable future.
Ferguson will be wary of Benfica having tasted defeat when the two sides met in 2005, however the Scot insisted he took solace from their performance in Portugal earlier in the season where it ended a 1-1 draw.
Match Winner
While Manchester United have appeared shaky at the back ,especially in Europe, the home side are favourites to take three points and take command of group c with just one game to go.
United are 1.57 (4/7) to take all three points with William Hill, while a Benfica victory is priced at 7.50 (13/2) with StanJames.
The draw is 4.33 (10/3), also with StanJames
First Goalscorer
Wayne Rooney leads the market for the first goalscorer, with much of the impetus placed on the England international to fire United to victory.
Rooney is best placed with 5.00 (4/1) with Coral, while Javier Hernandez is temptingly placed at 5.50 (9/2) with Paddy Power.
Mame Biram Diouf represents the away sides best chance of opening the scoring, and is placed at 9.00 (8/1) with SkyBet.
Recommended Bets
First goalscorer: Javier Hernandez, 5.50 (9/2) Paddy Power
Correct score: Manchester United 2-0 Benfica, 8.00 (7/1) William Hill
