United revert to type

After a slew of narrow wins over the last two months the bookies are finally expecting Manchester United to run amok against Wigan on Saturday - well, score more than one goal anyway. If we ignore their Carling Cup exit, which was a blessing in disguise for the Premier League champions, United have been uncharacteristically goal-shy this term, collecting seven 1-0 wins from their last eight matches. William Hill expects this trend to end on Saturday lunchtime with Ronaldo and co expected to feast on Chris Hutchins's unfancied outfit. Sir Alex Ferguson's side are 4/7 to score more than once against Wigan but there is no reason to expect change to happen at Old Trafford just yet. United will probably take the three points but it is likely to be more of a struggle given that they are now without both Michael Carrick and Owen Hargreaves in midfield. This may mean a start for £17m playmaker Anderson but as yet United have shown no indication that their skilful new signings are gelling and lunchtime kick-offs seldom produce goalfests. Take SportingBet's 10/11 on less than 2.5 goals to be scored in the match.Derby County have proven to be cannonfodder when pitted against the Premier League's top four but can hold their own against side in the lower half of the division. Reading are enduring a miserable second season in the top-flight and will surely not be as poor as they were in their 7-4 drubbing by Portsmouth. However, they will be likely to attack at home and Derby, for whom Kenny Miller is enjoying a productive first season, could take full advantage. They have already beaten Newcastle away this term and at 9/2 with VCBet they are worth a shot. Bankers this weekend include Arsenal, who looked jaded in their 1-0 won at Slavia Prague, but with almost a fully fit squad to choose from at last, will have too much for Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium, resurgent Chelsea will have no problems at struggling Bolton, in-form Manchester City will overcome sorry Middlesbrough, while in the Championship Ipswich can continue their perfect home record against Preston. The Tractor Boys have won three out of three at Portman Road, scoring nine in the process while Preston have yet to win on the road this term. Verdict: 2pts Manchester United v Wigan to produce under 2.5 goals @ 10/11 (General); 1pt Derby to bt Reading @ 9/2 (VCBet); 0.5pt Kenny Miller first goalscorer @ 10/1 (Coral); 2pts fourfold on Arsenal, Chelsea, Man City and Ipswich @ 5.25/1 (SportingBet)