Manchester United vs. Fulham preview

Manchester United play their first home game of the season on Saturday as they entertain a Fulham side full of confidence after smashing five goals on season’s opening day. United will be looking to pick up their first three points of the season, having struggled to a Monday night defeat at Goodison Park, and are likely to hand a first start to Robin Van Persie.

United who boast an excellent record against Fulham in recent fixtures, are still sweating on the fitness of Jonny Evans, who if fit, would provide the opportunity for Sir Alex Ferguson to field a recognised back four.

Evans who underwent ankle surgery at the end of last season, has stepped up his training over the past ten days, and now has an outside chance of partnering fellow returnee Nemanja Vidic at the heart of the defence.

Robin Van Persie will be looking to open his account for his new team, and work on his much talked about partnership with Wayne Rooney. The former Arsenal man who came on for a brief cameo against Everton, will be looking to make more of an impact from the start as he settles into his new surroundings at Old Trafford.

Fulham will be again be without Clint Dempsey, who is left out of the travelling squad to Old Trafford, as he continues in his attempts to force through a move away from Craven Cottage. Fulham who have lodged a complaint to the Premier League concerning the conduct of Liverpool and their pursuit of the American forward, will again look to Mladen Petric for goals.

The Croatian striker who scored two goals on debut against Norwich is likely to be deployed as a lone striker, with the away side looking to make it as difficult as possible for United by packing the midfield. Fulham have failed to score at Old Trafford since 2006, face an uphill battle in dealing with a United side looking to quickly recover from their defeat at Everton.

James Fuller, football correspondent