The one and only signing for this season, Fabian Barthez(Monaco) indeed strengthened the goal mouth but not the defence. The Neville brothers is getting more complacecent and cocky and the forever "butter footed" Silvestre is hopless despite a near full season playing last season.

Man U weakness is at the back and with the midfield failure to shine and rise on occassion, Alex Ferguson is in for trouble for not considering some changes for his defence line-up this season. Jaap Stam is fast losing his cool and patient on his left and right defenders. His confidence is sinking like the "Russia submarine".

Newcastle under the watchful eyes of Bobby Robson is a vastly improved side, getting bolder and fast gaining the much needed confidence.

The Magpies 5-1 trashing by the Red Devils back at Old Trafford last season is history and long forgotten. The 3-0 revenge by the Magpies this year Feb 2000 indeed has proven that Newcastle is able to run down Man U defence if the Magpies start believing in themselves.

Man U biggest enemy for today opening match is not Newcastle but Roy Keane himself. If the Captain can't control his forever ill-temper and unsportmanship behaviour, then the Red Devils will sure to flop this year to secure the Premiership title.

Alan Shearer, retired from International scene and having his mind cleared and the heavy burden removed, well just be prepared for his twinkled toes to return to his former form once again. The signing of Carl Colt(Wimbledon) to partner him upfront has yet to be tested. Speed, Dyer and Solona is still around to threaten the Red Devils defence line and we are in for a tight match.

My Pick: Man U narrow win . This is the match that I would not recommend you to punt and my advise is stay out from the 1st half. Go for the second half bet, Man U form is shaky to consider a 1 ball to Newcastle. Analyse the first half before you side the team. Good Luck.......

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