6 Bold Predictions for Manchester United vs. Wigan

I'll be honest, my bold predictions for Manchester United's last Premier League game didn't work out so well.

For the clash at Southampton, my only correct guess was that Robin van Persie would find the net more than once, and that's not exactly the boldest statement, is it?

This week, United host Wigan, a game which fans of the Red Devils hope will be an easy, but valuable three points in the pursuit of league leaders Chelsea.

Here's how I see it playing out.

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It seems every United fan under the sun is predicting Sir Alex Ferguson will drop Patrice Evra in favour of new signing Alexander Buttner.

Sure, the Frenchman's form has been disappointing for, well, the past three years. But to say that Buttner is the safer option defensively would be seriously misguided.

The Netherlands left-back's greatest strength is going forward, utilizing his blistering pace, and good ball skills.

But is another attacking option really what United need at the moment?

Make no mistake, Javier Hernandez was excellent in the come-from-behind win at St. Mary's two weeks ago—a key player in the dramatic win.

For his troubles, I reckon Sir Alex will reward him with a starting berth in the United team on Saturday, either alongside Robin van Persie, or as the lone striker.

With Wigan most likely deploying a five-man back line, the quickness and darting runs of the Mexican forward could be key.

If RVP is fully fit for the game, it may be difficult to include both in the team, though.

Sir Alex once said that if he played for United, he'd score three every week. Such is the Red Devils' effectiveness in creating chances.

And whilst the United boss' claims may be a little exaggerated, he does have a point.

Van Persie's hat trick goals against Southampton were put on a plate for him by his teammates; all the clinical striker had to do was put the ball in the back of the net.

Wigan's defence is a little more reliable than the Saints', but I still expect RVP to help himself.

That's if he plays, of course.

Wigan's attacking midfielder, Shaun Maloney, scored the crucial goal that broke United hearts last April.

His excellent strike eventually proved fatal in derailing the Red Devils' title hopes, and Sir Alex will make sure his players don't underestimate the Scot's abilities.

Maloney has already scored this season, and if he can get through an entire league campaign uninjured, could be vital in keeping the Latics in the EPL.

Wigan have had three players sent off on their last two visits to the Theatre of Dreams, and could well see red again on Saturday.

Antolin Alcaraz, Hugo Rodallega and Conor Sammon were the guilty parties, but with the latter two no longer at the club, and the former an injury doubt, could we see a new villain emerge at Old Trafford?

My guess is yes.

If Antonio Valencia is on his game, the Ecuadorian is able to run defences ragged, and provokes mistimed tackles aplenty from his opposition.

If Wigan do go down to ten men relatively early, I'm afraid it'll be all but "game over" for Roberto Martinez's side.

What kind of fan would I be if I didn't predict a big United win every week?

The Red Devils have had very poor periods in all three of their opening games this season, and yet (with the exception of the Everton game) have looked capable of scoring whenever they please.

All that's holding Sir Alex's team back from a thumping win has to be the ongoing struggles of his defence.

But with Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic settling back into their usual partnership, improvement this Saturday has to be expected.

How about 4-1?

What do you think will be the outcome of Saturday's game? Are any of my predictions worthy?

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