Chelsea v Manchester United: Five outside bets worth backing for a goal

With just one goalless draw in the last 25 meetings between Chelsea and Manchester United this weekend’s clash between two Premier League giants promises to be another classic encounter.

The likes of Wayne Rooney, Juan Mata, Diego Costa and Eden Hazard will lead the attacks for both sides so there are plenty of reasons to expect a high-scoring match at Stamford Bridge.

But with no one getting rich quick backing those short-priced market leaders Ladbrokes News has singled out five canny operators offering longer odds that could also get their names on the scoresheet on Saturday evening.

Chris Smalling @ 12/1

Question marks have hung over the head of the England defender since his shock move from Craven Cottage to Old Trafford but some solid displays have allayed those fears since Louis van Gaal replaced David Moyes.

It’s not just defensively that Smalling has improved, either, with the centre back scoring four goals this season – the same as Danny Welbeck, including one in the 4-2 win over Manchester City last timeout.

Bransilav Ivanovic @ 5/1

The Serbian is no stranger to a goal, with 46 notched in his career to date at just under one every 10 games.

The Chelsea full-back is batting above his average this year with six strikes from 46 games and could be a menace with the ball at his feet on the outskirts of the penalty area.

Ander Herrera @ 5/1

The Spaniard isn’t the most prolific of midfielders but with seven goals this term is starting to find his groove.

A recent brace against Aston Villa shows he’s got his shooting boots on and the fact that he has scored every time he’s had a shot on target this term should have Thibaut Coutois concerned.

John Terry @ 5/1

With 59 career goals from 659 games John Terry is about as prolific a goalscorer as a Premier League defender has ever been.

The former England captain has netted six times this season and his aerial threat from set pieces will provide Chelsea with another mode of attack once again.

Ashley Young @ 7/1

No one has improved more since Van Gaal’s arrival than renaissance man Ashley Young.

The 29-year-old has adapted to the Dutchman’s style of play with arguably greater ease than any of his team-mates and a goal and assist against City show the former England man is once again back to his deadly best.

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

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