Hammers can stand firm

West Ham United should be backed to escape a mauling when they travel to title-chasing Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday lunchtime. Paddy Power offer the Hammers at 11-8 in receipt of a two-goal start and that could be the way to go.

West Ham have happy memories of Old Trafford after avoiding relegation from the top flight with a famous 1-0 victory at the Theatre of Dreams on the final day of last season. And, if injuries have blighted their present campaign, progress can be seen to have been made from a likely top-half finish, including another defeat of United at Upton Park in December.

Manchester United remain well placed to retain the title despite losing 2-1 away to league rivals Chelsea last week, but could be excused a few tired limbs after another intense workout in the Champions League semi-final victory over Barcelona on Tuesday.

Wayne Rooney, who injured his hip against Chelsea last weekend, may be on the bench, but defender Nemanja Vidic remains out after suffering from concussion in the same game.

Manchester United have not won by more than one goal in seven matches, all competitions, while West Ham have not lost by more than one goal in the same number of games.

Outright odds on the match see United at a best-priced 2-11 with VC Bet and Boylesports. West Ham are as big as 20-1 with Skybet, while the draw can be found at 13-2 with VC Bet.