Preview 2013/14: September

Fixtures (Dates TBC): 14 Sep Crystal Palace H | 21 Sep Manchester City A | 28 Sep West Bromwich Albion H

First thoughts: Moyes v Pellegrini - round one.

Toughest test: Arguably the biggest match in world football, the Manchester derby will determine who sets the early-season pace in what could prove to be the most competitive title race for years. Although the cast may be different, with new managers and players at both clubs, the script remains the same. Quite simply, this is the one.

Subplot: Wilfried Zaha could face his old employers Palace just weeks after starting his United career. After signing for the Reds last January, the youngster rejoined the Eagles on loan until May when he helped them secure promotion via the play-offs. No wonder he won the Championship Player of the Year award.

Miles to travel: 12

Last September: P4 W3 D0 L1 (Southampton 2-3 United; United 4-0 Wigan Athletic; Liverpool 1-2 United; United 2-3 Tottenham Hotspur)

Rival watch - Man City: Stoke A, United H, Aston Villa A; Chelsea: Everton A, Fulham H, Tottenham A; Arsenal: Sunderland A, Stoke H, Swansea A.