Chris from www.manutdweb.com was kind enough to answer some questions for us ahead of tomorrows big game.
How do you think we will fare this season?

The heroics from Stoke and the early season form from Hull last season should give you boys plenty of encouragement. It’ll be a long, hard season but it seems to be getting easier for the newly-promoted clubs to find three weaker teams than themselves. McLeish is a good man to have at the helm and I think you stand a good chance of beating the drop if some of your names play to their potential. Necks on the line then – 16th.

As for United, Fergie has parted company with two huge names this summer in Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez. Ronaldo had to go – £80million was too good to turn down; whilst Tevez was not worth the price tag Manchester City were prepared to pay. However, the absence of both will affect the balance of the team/ Ferguson’s new signings are exciting; but represent something of a gamble and I’m worried that Chelsea may be the one celebrating the most honours come May.

Where do we need to strengthen?

Your pre-season results didn’t look great – perhaps suggesting the attack needs more cutting edge. It’ll be interesting to see how the likes of Cameron Jerome, Marcus Bent and Kevin Phillips to in the top flight this time around.

Which players we have do you think will step up? / What do you think about our signings so far?

It looks like McLeish has been quite busy on the transfer market this summer and a fair whack of cash has been spent. You’ve almost spent as much as Fergie has this time around. I’ve read a lot of good reviews about Scott Dann, Barry Ferguson will be keen to impress after the way things ended at Rangers; whilst Espinoza will bring experience.

What has changed in terms of playing styles since we were last up in 07/08?

I think it was two narrow 1-0 wins the last two times we met. Tevez got the goal at Old Trafford, Ronaldo down in the Midlands – make of that what you will! Expect the same old United though – plenty of battle; but a lot less petulance on the right-flank!

Have you visited our ground? What did you make of your Birmingham away day experience?

In this era of modern, all-seater, bowl-like arena, it’s nice to have another ground with plenty of character in the top-flight. The Birmingham fans usually make a good noise – if a little obsessed with United at times – and it’ll be an away trip the Red masses will look forward to later in the season.

What do you think the score will be when we play you this season?

Reports suggest you’re struggling a bit with injuries – a lot depends on how you approach t he game; but I’ll go 1-0 United again.