Community Shield Win Leaves United and Ferguson In Great Shape Ahead Of Premier League Defence

The scoreline at Wembley may have been close as Man united over came Man City 3-2 to win the Community Shield but in truth it was something of a demoralising day for the blue half of Manchester, they were comprehensively outplayed by their more illustrious neighbours as united produced a performance to delight Sir Alex Ferguson. Prior to the match both Managers were quick to play down the importance of the Community Shield on the upcoming season but Ferguson could not hide his delight as Nani rounded Joe Hart in injury time to secure the win having seen his team come from two down at half time.

It is true to say that the Community Shield is no more than a pre-season curtain raiser but it is worth noting that the last four winners of the Shield have gone onto win the Premier League and based on their performance on Sunday, United look the team to beat once again. Ferguson has spent big money in the Summer bringing in the likes of Ashley Young, Phil Jones and David De Gea but the most impressive performances came from Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck who have returned to Old Trafford after a season out on loan. Ferguson may well have pulled off another masterstroke with the two young players who impressed in the Premier League last campaign, they could prove to be the best additions to the United squad this season following one or two high profile retirements recently.

Time and time again Ferguson has proven the master at building success at Old Trafford and he will be confident they can claim their 20th title this season, they were too good last year and with doubts surrounding their major rivals United have to be the team to beat once again. Paddy Power have been quick to react to the Community Shield win and have shortened the Champions who and are now priced at 7/4 to win the league while City are available at 7/2 with Paddy Power to win the title. In contrast to Ferguson, Roberto Mancini will be slightly worried after their Wembley defeat as he looks to improve on their third place finish, they do have Sergio Aguero to come in to the team but they looked way off the pace compared to their city rivals and will need to improve and quickly if they are to challenge.

There is no doubt that so far Roberto Mancini has done a great jog at City, he has spent the money wisely while managing to gel the team together but he now looks to be facing up to his toughest task since joining the blue half of Manchester. He will need to balance out their new Champions League commitments with the owners desire to challenge United for the title and while their squad is a strong as any they will need to learn quickly at the highest level if they are to upset the Manchester apple cart.

Man United Betting Markets 2011/12 with Paddy Power

• 7/4 - United to win the Premier League


• 10/11 - United to win no trophies


• 12/1 - United to win the Premier League FA cup Double


• 14/1 - United to win the Premier League League Cup Double


• 300/1 - United to win the Premier League, Fa Cup, League Cup and Champions League