Carlos Tevez can prove the decisive factor in helping Manchester City end Manchester United’s unbeaten run (City 8/5, Draw 9/4, Utd 17/10 – Match Betting), with the Argentinian making a timely return to action.
The former United favourite was sorely missed during City’s three-game losing streak, but his comeback at West Brom saw Roberto Mancini’s men return to winning ways.
It was the red half of Manchester that enjoyed the bragging rights last season, with two wins over their local rivals in the league and success also in the Carling Cup.
The determination to turn the tables on Fergie’s men is clear and no one will be more desperate for a victory than Tevez (6/5 to score at anytime) – who already has seven league goals to his name this season.
United, who were fortunate to claim a late winner against Wolves, have a string of injury absentees and have been battling against a virus in the camp in the last week.
Sir Alex Ferguson has already expressed his concern at a lack of numbers, with Nani doubtful and Ryan Giggs and Owen Hargreaves sidelined.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s title credentials face a big test when they visit a resurgent Wolves outfit (5/1 to win the game), who are capable of inflicting another defeat on the Gunners.
Arsene Wenger’s men slipped to their third defeat of the season against Newcastle on Sunday and the Frenchman needs his key men to respond at Molineux.
League leaders Chelsea have just the game they need to get them back on track after defeat to Liverpool when they face west London rivals Fulham.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men are a different team at Stamford Bridge and they will prove too strong for a Fulham squad struggling for goals at present without the injury Bobby Zamora.
Fresh from their success over the champions, Liverpool will be handed another test to see if they really have turned the corner – with an away date at Wigan.
The Latics clash is the type of game the Reds have struggled with in the past, with Liverpool scoring just two goals in their last three visits to the DW Stadium.
With Fernando Torres (7/2 to score first goal) close to top form though, the Wigan defence don’t look strong enough to cope with the Reds’ attacking threat.
Newcastle will face former boss Sam Allardyce when Blackburn visit St James’ Park, and the Magpies look set for a third league win on the bounce.
Rovers may be hard to beat at home but their away form is poor and an in-form Toon will fancy their chances of cementing a top-six place.
There could well be more pressure heaped on Gerard Houllier when Blackpool visit Villa Park looking for their fourth away win of the season.
Villa have a striking injury crisis at present and it’s hard to see where their goals will come from, while the Tangerines are scoring plenty.
Despite another impressive win for Bolton at the weekend, history suggests they will be on the end of a defeat at Everton on Wednesday.
The Blues are unbeaten in their last six matches and look a decent bet to defeat Owen Coyle’s men, who have lost on their last four visits to Goodison Park.
West Ham look in real trouble at the bottom but they could pick up their second win of the season again struggling West Brom (West Ham 11/8, Draw 9/4, West Brom 2/1 – Match Betting).
After a fine start to the season, the Baggies have lost back-to-back games and confidence and discipline looks to be draining from the squad.
Bet on the World Cup and get £200. Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.