18th August 2009
Top flight football returns to Turf Moor after a 33-year absence, with a full house expected for the visit of champions Manchester United. The Clarets began the season with defeat at Stoke but are a different proposition at home, where they have won their last six league games.
Owen Coyle's side also proved their pedigree by beating Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham and West Brom in cup competitions last season.
The Clarets could give a debut to Andre Bikey, who has not played since being sent off at Turf Moor on play-off duty with Reading in May. Due to a technicality he completes his four-match ban when Reading play Swansea on Tuesday despite having left the Royals.
The last time Burnley beat the Red Devils was in 1968, when the visitors' line-up included George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton.
It's that kind of star quality that United arguably lack following the departures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez but Sir Alex Ferguson insists new heroes will emerge as the Red Devils try to become the first English side to win four consecutive league titles.
Wayne Rooney looks the most likely candidate, following up his strike in the Community Shield with the only goal against Birmingham on Sunday.
Burnley have defensive problems with captain Steven Caldwell unlikely to recover from a groin problem in time and Michael Duff (ankle) ruled out.
David Edgar is back from suspension and could make his debut alongside Andre Bikey, who has joined from Reading.
With Jonny Evans (ankle) struggling, Wes Brown could partner John O'Shea at the back for Manchester United.
Rio Ferdinand is out for two weeks with a thigh injury, while Nemanja Vidic (calf) remains sidelined.
Burnley v Man Utc Odds Click Here
