Manchester United: Predicting United's Starting XI for EPL Opener vs. West Brom

Manchester United begin their Premier League defense away versus West Bromwich Albion on Saturday August 13th.

With Sir Alex Ferguson having made some big moves in the transfer market there could be some new faces on show at The Hawthorns.

Here's my guess at what his first starting XI of the new EPL season will be. It's based on form, but also taking into account the opposition—and the fact it's likely to be an open, attacking contest.

GK: David De Gea

Sir Alex Ferguson has already confirmed new signing De Gea will start the season as his first-choice goalkeeper.

He'll be hoping the Spanish youngster has a gentle introduction to the Premier League against West Brom.

RB: Rafael Da Silva

The 21-year-old Brazilian is making excellent progress at United, and seems likely to start the season in possession of the right-back shirt.

Of course his brother Fabio might have something to say about that, but most United fans would feel comfortable with either.

CBs: Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic

There's been lots of talk about Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans this summer, but there's no question Ferdinand and Vidic are the men in possession.

That said, if either suffers a dip in form or bad injury this season, the trio of wannabe United central defenders will be ready to take their opportunity.

LB: Patrice Evra

Probably one of the first names on Ferguson's teamsheet these days, Evra is arguably the best left-back in the Premier League.

The Frenchman sets the tone for United's commitment and is a dynamic presence at both ends of the field.

LM: Ashley Young

New signing Ashley Young will be licking his lips at the prospect of a Premier League debut away at West Brom.

The England winger is likely to have plenty of space on the flank, and all the encouragement in the world to bomb forward and make an instant impression.

Ferguson will be hoping he has a game to set the tone for his season.

RM: Nani

Nani was rumored to be set for an Old Trafford exit this summer, but Ferguson maintains the flying winger is still vital to his plans.

With competition from new signing Ashley Young, the Portuguese star has all the motivation necessary to deliver his best season in a United shirt.

I expect Ferguson to start him against West Brom.

CMs: Michael Carrick and Anderson

The Brazilian Anderson has been much-maligned in recent years, but with Paul Scholes retired and still no sign of midfield reinforcements, this could be his big chance to prove his worth.

Rio Ferdinand has suggested he could be the man to fill Scholes' boots, and I expect him to get the nod against West Brom.

Michael Carrick will likely be alongside him, tasked with moving the ball wide at every opportunity.

Ryan Giggs will get his chance, but his game time will surely be limited by his age this season.

FWs: Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez

United's first-choice strike duo at the end of last season will surely pick up where they left off against West Brom.

Dimitar Berbatov, Federico Macheda and Michael Owen will likely remain in the wings, and it's hard to imagine any of them breaking the Rooney-Chicharito partnership unless injury intervenes.