Man Utd v Cluj: hosts to maintain perfect start in Europe

Manchester United are already through to the knockout stages of the Champions League and are expected to sweep aside Cluj in their final group game.

They are 4/7 favourites and already saw off Cluj 2-1 in Romania.

However, there should be a tingling of doubt for punters looking to back United in their final group game.

Despite their 100 per cent record in the Champions League, United have been far from convincing and their habit of conceding first in games is now talked about as much as their ability to win with late goals.

With United already through as group winners and a massive game against Manchester City waiting for them on Sunday, there is no doubt that Sir Alex Ferguson will rest players in preparation which makes Cluj look decent value for the win.

Punters who reckon United’s luck will come to an end at Old Trafford can back the Romanians at 9/2 – a pretty meaty price considering the visitors are looking for the win to make it into the knockout stages.

However, this is Manchester United and their second string attack is Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez. Their second string midfield is Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Nani, while their defence looks likely to include Chris Smalling and Phil Jones.

With players fighting for first team places and their dire defending against Reading on Saturday earning the wrath of Ferguson they will be keen to end their group games in a win.

Backing United to win at 4/7 may be well worth taking on even at those relatively paltry odds while, if you’re looking for something a tiny bit longer, then lumping on both teams to score at 4/6 also looks a decent way of making a couple of quid.

All odds and markets accurate as of publication’s time and date