Manchester United meet Burnley at Old Trafford on Boxing Day in a clash between two of the four best defensive teams in the Premier League.
The Red Devils’ hopes of a 21st top flight title this term have all but vanished, but they could strengthen their grip on the runners-up spot with victory over seventh-place Burnley, who have been the division’s surprise package.
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Match Odds
Next Match
The hosts are heavy favourites at 1/5 (1.20) with Betfair for a ninth home victory of the campaign.
Jose Mourinho’s men need no reminding though of last season’s frustrating 0-0 with the Clarets, who are 5/1 (6.0) to leave The Theatre of Dreams with another point.
Sean Dyche’s side are stronger this term and, having left Stamford Bridge, Wembley and Anfield unscathed, can be found at 13/1 (14.0) for a shock victory.
Issues up front for the Clarets
With Chris Wood having picked up a knock in Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Tottenham, the goalscoring responsibility could fall to Ashley Barnes: the ex-Brighton man has struck the last goal in two of his side’s previous eight games and is 13/1 (14.0) to do so again.
Another former Brighton player is Jesse Lingard, who has netted four goals in his last six league games and is 21/10 (3.1) to add to his tally.
Oppose goals
83.3% of Burnley’s Premier League games this season have seen the net bulge on two or fewer occasions, so the 11/10 (2.1) on Under 2.5 Goals holds appeal.
Manchester United have not created so many chances of late, baring the 2-2 draw at Leicester and we’ll recommend the 14/1 (15.0) on another goalless draw could be worth considering for those happy to take a long shot on the game.
Tips and predictions
Our best bet thouogh, is the Burnley +2 handicap at Evens (2.0), which will land if they avoid defeat by two or more goals, which they have done in 17 of their 19 games. With United far from their best this could be another dour encounter and the Clarets are capable of staying within touching distance at Old Trafford.
Burnley +2 handicap for a 2pt stake at Evens (2.0) with Betfair 
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