Preview: Manchester United vs. Chelsea

Manchester United host Chelsea at Old Trafford on Monday night as both sides attempt to seize an early advantage in the Premier League title race.

All the talk in the build-up has surrounded whether Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata will switch teams before the end of the summer transfer window, and such speculation could dictate whether they feature in their respective starting lineups.

Manchester United manager David Moyes has indicated that Rooney could start against the Blues, but after such a comprehensive victory over Swansea last weekend, the England international is likely to have to settle for a place on the bench.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has insisted that Mata will be remaining at Stamford Bridge, but a lack of match-fitness could see the Spaniard also begin the match on the sidelines.

The former Real Madrid coach could tinker with his side, however, with Fernando Torres vying for a recall, while Cesar Azpilicueta could come in at right-back to allow Branislav Ivanovic to revert to his preferred centre-back position.

Defensive teammate David Luiz could return to Chelsea's squad after injury, but he is unlikely to be thrown in from the start.

Recent form

Manchester United: WW

Chelsea: WW

Possible lineups

Manchester United: De Gea; Evra, Jones, Ferdinand, Vidic; Giggs, Carrick, Welbeck, Cleverley, Valencia; Van Persie

Chelsea: Cech; Ivanovic, Cole, Azpilicueta, Terry; Ramires, Lampard, Schurrle, Oscar, Hazard; Torres

Sports Mole says: 1-1