over 2.5 goals.

Well Man Utd have been nowhere near top form in the 1st half of the season but as usual its still good enough form to be leading the epl and� very much in the running to claim their title back.

There is still some question marks about the defence, as there has been for a couple of years, but going forward Utd look as strong as any side. The hammering of Blackburn- which probably cost big Sam his job- is the best peformance by any side this season. Going forward they looked unstoppable with Berbatov hitting 5 goals.

Sunderland are very much in the running for european football. The manager there does not seem to get much credit but he really has done a super job. Sunderland were one of the sides i had down for a relegation battle but they have been excellent at times this season. I like their front�3 very mobile with speed and all good finishers. They certainly know how to play on the break as we seen at Chelsea in that amazing 3-0 win.

Man Utd always play well over Xmas. I have no idea why it happens but this is the time in the season you see them at their very best and one or two sides usually take a real tanking. That could well happen here as when Sunderland are off form they can be woeful. Remember the defeat at Newcastle they simply folded.

Having said that Sunderland are a side you fancy to score goals no matter where they go. Their attack is up there with the best in the epl and while i give them little chance of winning i do think we will see them make chances and hopefully grab at least�1 goal.

over 2.5 goals with st j at a.1 .73