Rio Ferdinand: We'll be ready to fight off Everton

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes that the Red Devils will be fully prepared to take on Everton in the opening day of the new Premier League season.

The fixtures for the 2012-13 campaign were released this morning, with last season's runner-ups scheduled to undergo their season with a tough away trip to Goodison Park.

Ferdinand tweeted: "Everton away 1st day of the season....solid start that but we will be raring to go!"

Meanwhile, reigning champions Manchester City will begin the defence of their title at home to newly-promoted outfit Southampton.