Premier League: Manchester United v Stoke City match preview

A look ahead to this weekend's Premier League fixture at Old Trafford

Robin van Persie had a poor experience on his United debut

Stoke sit in a respectable 12th position considering their opening six fixtures featured games against Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool. Sadly for Tony Pulis’ side it doesn’t get any easier as they visit Old Trafford on Saturday to play a Manchester United side aiming to claw back the five-point advantage held by Chelsea at the top of the table.

Despite only winning one of their seven league games this season, Stoke are the draw masters managing four whilst only league-leaders Chelsea have a better defensive record than the Potters as they have only seen five goals go past Asmir Begovic this term.

It may be a different story on Saturday though, as both Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez boast fruitful records against Stoke. Chicharito has scored four goals in four games against them whilst Van Persie has netted six goals in five appearances against the Potters during his time at Arsenal.

KICK-OFF: Saturday, 3pm

PAST THREE MEETINGS…

Manchester United 2 (Chicharito, Berbatov) Stoke 0, Premier League, January 2012

Stoke 1 (Crouch) Manchester United 1 (Nani), Premier League, September 2011

Manchester United 2 (Chicharito, Nani) Stoke 1 (Whitehead), Premier League, January 2011

STATS...

Manchester United have managed to save nine points from losing positions so far this season, more than any other team in the Premier League.

Stoke have not won at Old Trafford in 36 years, their last victory coming back in April 1976.

With five goals, the Red Devils have scored more from corners than any other side while 67 per cent of Stoke’s league goals this season have come from set-pieces.

ODDS...

Manchester United to win: 1.28

Stoke to win: 10.5

Draw: 5.25

TV: Highlights on BBC1 at 10.30pm