All eyes on Manchester

MANCHESTER UNITED’S mesmeric and historic 8-2 victory over Arsenal has not only left Arsene Wenger contemplating his lowest ever moment in football management but also provided compelling evidence the Premier League is set for a two-horse title race played out entirely within the environs of Greater Manchester.

Just hours after derby rivals City continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 5-1 victory at Tottenham, United’s performance was so convincing, so joyous, so effervescent that the title pendulum appears to have swung, perhaps for the long-term, from London to the north West.

The growing influence of Liverpool, revitalised under Kenny Dalglish, could also play a part but judging by yesterday’s results if the Premier League trophy, currently sitting proudly in a cabinet at Old Trafford, has moved more than a few miles by May 2012 it would be a major surprise.