Sunderland v Man United: Both teams scoring looks a formality

Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United tenure got off to the worst possible start with defeat at home to Swansea and although the Red Devils traditionally prosper at Sunderland, their suspect defence could stop them grabbing the three points they crave at the Stadium of Light.

Still, the travelling side are priced up as strong 4/5 favourites to do just that, while Sunderland are out at 7/2 and the draw is 13/5.

However, there’s no such thing as a guaranteed United win anymore so we offer up three alternative bets:

Both teams to score @ 3/4

Having conceded twice apiece in their opening Premier League fixtures there are obvious question marks hanging over both Sunderland’s and United’s respective defences.

Van Gaal has brought in reinforcements in the shape of Marcos Rojo, though the Argentine may take time to settle and even if the Dutchman reverts to 4-4-2 the likes of Chris Smalling just aren’t cutting the mustard.

Meanwhile, only four teams conceded more times at home than Gus Poyet’s side during 2013/14.

Over 2.5 total goals @ 3/4

Thanks to their Capital One Cup semi-final encounter these teams ended up playing four times last season and on three occasions the 2.5 goals-line was exceeded.

While United may be lacking at the back, they still have plenty of top quality attacking talent capable of notching a few against most opposition if they click.

The Black Cats have averaged two goals per game from their last five Premier League matches.

Wayne Rooney to score any time @ 5/4

The England man flew the flag for United last season despite the turmoil and has started this campaign in fine fettle once more, bagging the equaliser against Swansea.

Wazza bagged nine of his 17 league goals on the road last season and is fast closing in on Alan Shearer’s all-time record of away goals.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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