Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson is expecting Manchester United to thrash Wolves in their season opener.

The away side have dismissed their manager in the build-up to the match and Merson claims they will be there for the taking when the teams face off at Old Trafford on Monday night:

“Wolves are in disarray at the moment – they’ve sacked their manager three days before a trip to Old Trafford. Manchester United won’t believe their luck, and I’m backing them to win this game.”

Merson has gone with a 4-0 win to United, which may raise a few eyebrows, but it is a more than realistic scoreline, considering Wolves’ situation.

They have brought in Gary O’Neil just days before the start of the campaign. The former Bournemouth boss has had no preparation time, with Julen Lopetegui having been in charge for pre-season.

United will be keen to get off to a fast start

Although Erik ten Hag’s side had the second-best home record in the Premier League last season, winning 15 matches and dropping just nine points, they did only score 36 goals.

That is something United will want to improve upon if they can and they will be looking to get off to a strong start versus Wolves.

They will be without their newest signing

Ten Hag has confirmed that Rasmus Holjlund won’t be in the squad for the Wolves clash, with the Dane’s back injury set to keep him sidelined until early September.

However, Anthony Martial is back available, with the Frenchman likely to take his place on the bench. The Red Devils should have enough firepower, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount, to comfortably win their first fixture.

Opening matches can spring up surprises but United will be firm favourites to secure the three points this evening.