• Premier League

Van Persie out again for United while Bendtner makes Arsenal return

ESPN staff
December 4, 2013
Nicklas Bendtner will be taking in a different view at the Emirates for a change © Getty Images
Enlarge

There are nine Premier League games this evening, with the pick of the bunch Everton's visit to take on former boss David Moyes and Manchester United at Old Trafford. However, Robin van Persie is once again missing for United, while Ryan Giggs starts.

Moyes never won at Old Trafford in the league whilst manager of the Toffees and will be hoping his former side's struggles at Old Trafford continue under Roberto Martinez.

League leaders Arsenal have sprung a surprise by starting Nicklas Bendtner up front for the rested Olivier Giroud for tonight's clash with Hull City, while Carl Jenkinson replaces Bacary Sagna in defence.

Arsenal are looking to strengthen their grip at the top of the table but their recent schedule has caught up with them, though Sagna is expected to be available for the Gunners as early as this weekend.

New Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen begins life at the helm with the visit of Tottenham, who start Jermain Defoe up front in place of the misfiring Roberto Soldado. Dimitar Berbatov, whose agent had made it clear in the hours leading up to this match that the player wishes to move from Craven Cottage in January, is surprisingly still included in the Fulham XI.

Liverpool will hope to put a tough loss at Hull on Sunday behind them against Norwich at Anfield, with Joe Allen and Philippe Coutinho returning to the starting line-up, Victor Moses and Lucas the men to miss out. Bradley Johnson starts in place of Gary Hooper for the visitors.

Chelsea welcome Frank Lampard back to their starting XI against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, along with Willian, with Michael Essien dropping to the bench after his early clanger against Southampton on Sunday and Oscar declared unfit to feature at all.

LIVE Premier League text commentary - for all the action as it happens, click here.

Download ESPN's new UK sport app, a fresh and powerful new way to follow your favourite UK sports news, scores and video.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close