Manchester United fans will hope Ruud van Nistelrooy can maintain the feelgood factor when Chelsea visit Old Trafford on Sunday.
Following Erik ten Hag’s sacking earlier this week, Van Nistelrooy was placed in charge as interim head coach.
And the former United striker, 48, immediately lifted the gloom by guiding his side to a 5-2 victory over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.
On the same night, a much-changed Chelsea line-up produced a limp performance as their cup run came to an end courtesy of a 2-0 defeat at Newcastle.
And while Premier League form would suggest the Blues are favourites to leave Manchester with three points, the boost Van Nistelrooy has given the Red Devils could prove decisive.
The showdown between United and Chelsea is the standout fixture in a bumper weekend of football in the English top flight.
But do not forget that Bet777 have all the top sports covered 24/7. From boxing to cricket, darts to horse racing, you will always find a huge range of sports betting markets right here.
Manchester United vs Chelsea
Sunday, November 3, 4.30pm, Sky Sports
Old Trafford, Manchester
Manchester United vs Chelsea Preview
Regardless of what the future may hold for Van Nistelrooy, he will forever be a hero in the eyes of the United faithful.
And if he can build on that cup win against Leicester with a victory over Chelsea, the Dutchman’s reputation will sky rocket.
However, there is no escaping the fact that United’s form in the league was nothing short of miserable under Ten Hag.
With nine games played, they head into Matchday 10 having picked up just 11 points.
Three wins, two draws and four defeats, the most recent of which was at West Ham last weekend, ensured Ten Hag’s reign came to a disappointing end.
In contrast, Chelsea are battling it out for a place in the top four and have lost just twice in the league — to champions Manchester City and title-chasing Liverpool.
The Blues were poor at St James’ Park in midweek but Enzo Maresca will prefer to point to the fact that his first XI beat Newcastle 2-1 at Stamford Bridge when it mattered in the league.
While the Van Nistelrooy effect cannot be overlooked, Maresca’s side should be eyeing maximum points from their trip to the Theatre of Dreams.
Latest Premier League Betting Odds
*All odds are subject to change
All things considered, it would be no surprise to see this one end in a draw. And with that outcome priced at 3.67, plenty of bettors will be tempted to have a punt.
But if you firmly believe that league form is all that should come into consideration, the 2.52 available for an away win may be too good to overlook.
Manchester United vs Chelsea Betting Tips
As always, the first goalscorer market is proving popular ahead of the game. With red-hot Chelsea duo Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson nailed on to make Maresca’s line-up, the chances are it will be a player in blue to break the deadlock.
Palmer, who has already bagged seven goals in the league, is priced at 6.20 to find the net first. Jackson, meanwhile, is a very tasty 7.40 to open the scoring.
When you choose 777 Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at 777, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information.
