LONDON, Aug 12: Manchester United look to put their summer troubles behind them and strike an early blow over champions Chelsea and bitter rivals Arsenal when they kick-off the new Premiership season on Saturday.

United warmed up for Saturday’s encounter with a 3-0 win against Debrecen in a Champions League qualifier in midweek, while Everton’s European dream took a knock after losing 2-1 at home to Villarreal.

With Chelsea and last season’s runners-up Arsenal not starting their campaigns until Sunday, United have a golden opportinity to stake out their claim for the title.

Wigan will face a Chelsea side that has been greatly strengthened since clinching a first top-flight title in 50 years last season.

Arsenal, who finished second last season, open at home to Newcastle, also on Sunday.

Fixtures: Saturday (1400 GMT unless stated): Aston Villa v Bolton Wanderers, Everton v Manchester United (1145 GMT), Fulham v Birmingham, Manchester City v West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough v Liverpool (1615 GMT), Portsmouth v Tottenham Hotspur, Sunderland v Charlton Athletic, West Ham United v Blackburn Rovers

Sunday: Arsenal v Newcastle United (1230 GMT), Wigan Athletic v Chelsea (1500 GMT).—Reuters