EPL 1/1/2008 - Manchester United vs Birmingham

If ever there was an easier game for the New Year, it should be the demolition of Birmingham and resumption of normal operations for both teams. Perhaps the bullies from Manchester were too horny over the Christmas period after getting locked out by Alex Ferguson - no outlet for frustration and it showed on the pitch. Even Cristiano Ronaldo had trouble shooting as he misfired. Rio Ferdinand looked out of sorts and returned to his old ways of blaming everyone else but himself. And Rooney? Probably wasted after having a marathon with two fit birdies.

And what about Alex McLeish's Birmingham? I have no idea because spending time watching a team like that might be akin to spending your afternoon watching grass grow. Other than restoring some hard graft, no different from when Steve Bruce was around and without some clueless Hong Kong businessman hanging a noose over his head, I am not sure how McLeish can hope to improve this team. Perhaps a few new buys with the re-opening of the transfer window this month might do the trick. Then again the only stars that might arrive would be from the Scottish international team. McFadden of Everton?

That said, this will be at Old Trafford, where Manchester United does not lose and get every decision their way. Another no-brainer (that's what I said vs West Ham), another Manchester United win, and plenty of goals.