With Chelsea already holding a 12-point advantage over Manchester United in the Premier League standings, Thomas Tuchel's side have earned their tag as favourites ahead of Sunday's fixture at Stamford Bridge. While the Blues have scored just 10 more goals than their opponents, there is a difference of 17 when it comes to strikes conceded at the other end of the pitch.
Nevertheless, there is a feeling that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer departing his role as manager at least gives United a chance of a surprise victory in West London. Their players responded on Tuesday night as United claimed a 2-0 victory away at Villarreal in the Champions League. Although Chelsea made a bigger statement with their 4-0 triumph over Juventus later in the evening, United's result under the guidance of caretaker boss Michael Carrick gives punters food for thought ahead of placing their bets at the weekend.
Just likes punters can take advantage of using free bets for UK, Tuchel will likely look to reap the benefits from introducing Romelu Lukaku late in the game. Having missed six games with an ankle injury, Lukaku remained an unused substitute versus Juventus, effectively guaranteeing that he will start Sunday's contest among the replacements. However, punters can feel comfortable with making the prediction that the Belgium international will eventually be introduced during the latter stages, and betting odds of 15/4 for the forward to net the last goal of the match may prove too good to turn down.
People using the sportsbook this week will surely be paying attention to any odds relating to Cristiano Ronaldo. For all of United's struggles, the Portuguese superstar has remained a revelation, netting 10 times in all competitions. The latest of those strikes came against Villarreal, the fourth away match in succession where the 36-year-old has contributed a goal or assist. Ronaldo's work off the ball is not what it once was, but he will get into the right positions when United advance into Chelsea's defensive third. Chances may be few and far between, but there is value in the 5/2 on offer for Ronaldo to score at any time in the match.
Eric Bailly and Marcos Alonso have not been regulars for their respective teams this season, but they are in line to feature on Sunday. Bailly should deputise for the suspended Harry Maguire, while Alonso is likely to get the nod ahead at left wing-back with Ben Chilwell facing a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury. Odds of 15/8 and 12/5 are available for the pair to receive a yellow card, and there is every chance that you will make a profit if you are prepared to place a single or double bet.
Even though United are available at 5/1 on the back of an impressive away win, there is not much value in going all in on the 5/1 which is available for another success for Carrick. Instead, opting for the 18/5 for United, draw no bet, offers far more value. United will have their chances in West London, but it appears unlikely that they will be able to withstand the pressure which will be applied at the other end. Nevertheless, despite conceding four goals at Leicester and Watford, it is worth noting that United still possess the sixth-best away record in the division.
Going back to the topic of pressure, United have previous for faltering under duress in the penalty area. Chelsea are also effective in forcing defences into mistakes, a trait which has led to Jorginho scoring so many goals during the Tuchel reign. With that in mind, punters will feel justified in taking the 4/1 which is available for Jorginho to score and Chelsea to prevail after 90 minutes.
