It’s win or bust for Manchester United on the final Premier League weekend but whether it’s 1-0 or 10-0 the champions will fall short should Chelsea defeat Wigan at Stamford Bridge. And that is why the reigning champions are out to 9 (8-1) to regain their trophy, with the Londoners as short as 1.12 (1-8).

But whether or not United regain the title there is still 90 minutes of football to bet on and plenty of opportunities to make money. Let’s see if we can find some…

First up, the match odds, where United are a prohibitive 1.14 (1-7) shot to defeat visitors Stoke. That is a price for none but the highest rollers and such occasions lead punters to look at the handicap markets where short-priced teams can be backed to win giving up a start to their opponents. Betfair customers are convinced that the home team is going to cut loose – United are just 1.71 (5-7) to win by three goals or more (though you don’t lose your stake if it’s a victory by ‘just’ two goals).

But is United dominance that assured? Yes, Stoke were beaten 7-1 at Chelsea but results since then have been encouraging – a 0-0 draw at home to Everton and a 1-0 win at Fulham. It’s doubtful that a defence which has given up no goals in two games is going to roll over and give in. As mentioned earlier it doesn’t matter whether United win 1-0 or 10-0 so don’t be fooled that the home team will be going all out for a heavy win. Any win will do.

At 5.4 (9-2) the draw/United halftime-fulltime result is a tempting bet. The Red Devils should triumph, but they may not have it all their own way and Tony Pulis looks to have Stoke battling again. If you disagree, United/United can be backed at 1.5 (1-2) to hold the HT/FT advantage.

In an intriguing side battle to the title tussle, Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba are both locked on 26 goals as they vie for the Premier League’s Golden Boot. Wazza will be a 1.65 (4-6) shot to beat Asmir Begovic in the Stoke goal and there’s little doubt his team-mates will try to tee him up. Maybe though the better bet is to back Rooney to finish as top Premier League goalscorer where he can be backed at 2.14 (11-10)?

Whether Rooney scores or not, United should win – they have to if they want to regain the Premier League of course – but remember it might not be as one-sided as everyone thinks.