Manchester Derby predictions: City and United set to share the spoils in Sunday showdown

In a weekend of derbies there are another two on Sunday. Sunderland versus Newcastle whets the appetite at midday, ahead of Manchester City’s visit to Old Trafford a couple of hours later.

 

Manchester United claimed a 4-2 victory when the sides met there last season. The good news for anyone planning to tune in this time is that games between the sides are often full of action – and goals.

 

In eight Premier League clashes over the last four seasons there have been 31 goals. As hosts, United are Sportingbet’s 13/8 favourites, with City available at 7/4.

 

If it was being played in the blue half of the city then my money would be on Manuel Pellegrini’s men. His side top the table and, aside from the West Ham slip-up, have been ruthless at home.

 

They have the stronger best XI but have missed two key components of that – Sergio Aguero and David Silva – in recent weeks and City lost their last league away game 4-1 at White Hart Lane.

 

The draw, 12/5 with Sportingbet, is where my money is going.

 

For spread bettors, it might be worth looking at the bookings market.

 

The last eight league encounters between the two have seen 43 yellow cards and two reds.

 

Sporting Index awards 10 points for a caution and 25 for a dismissal, up to 35 points per player.

 

They are quoting 60-64 points for this game.