Champions League Group B: Man Utd seek recovery in Wolfsburg clash

The Red Devils led against PSV Eindhoven in their first European encounter since 2013 but a horrific injury to full back Luke Shaw derailed the travelling Premier League side, eventually losing out 2-1 to make the worst possible start.

United are 11/4 with Coral to secure victory on home soil with both teams scoring this time out, with a max stake of £20, having impressively remained undefeated at Old Trafford this term, while the visitors have suffered just the one loss so far.

Spanish playmaker Juan Mata has been at the forefront of United’s early campaign success, with his creative prowess helping his side return to the top of the table for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge.

The Spaniard is 2/1 to strike anytime and add to his three goals in 11 club outings, having recently admitted he is relishing playing under Van Gaal now, after initially being part of that struggling David Moyes set-up.

“Every manager has his own way of working and with him (Van Gaal) it was more different than it was with any other manager,” stated Mata.

“He said when he arrived that it was going to be difficult, especially at the beginning, but it is all about time and getting used to his way of working. I am talking about the number of meetings, the training sessions and the games.

“It is true that when a new manager comes to a club everyone starts from zero but I am quite happy with everything that is happening to me because I have a lot in common with his way of playing football.”

Anthony Martial has truly hit the ground running at Old Trafford since he arrived as the most expensive teenager in history, and the France international forward is 3/1 to fire United to victory once more (£20 max stake).

Although, United’s impressive defensive duo of Chris Smalling and Daley Blind will be tested by plenty of attacking talent which Dieter Hecking has at his disposal. Blind could be involved in an intriguing battle with fellow countryman Bas Dost, who is 7/1 to help inflict a second successive defeat on United by opening proceedings.

Shaw is a long-term absentee for the hosts, meaning naturally right-sided Italy defender may again deputise at left back, with Marcos Rojo and Paddy McNair doubts through injury. Vieirinha and Koen Casteels have sat out Die Wolfe’s last five matches, so remain doubtful, while Robin Knoche is sidelined for another two weeks and Luiz Gustavo is suffering with a knee problem.

With the Bundesliga title-chasers having overcome CSKA Moscow in their opening clash, the pressure is on the Red Devils to get back to winning ways on their European return, but early Old Trafford form could see them clinch a vital three points in Group B.

Betting tip: Manchester United to win and both teams to score @ 11/4