Arsenal v Man City: 2014/15 ribbon-cutter to captivate

Edin Dzeko was an unsung hero of Man City's title triumph

Michael Lintorn expects over-2.5-goals backers to be rewarded when Arsenal and Man City squabble over the Community Shield...

Arsenal v Man City
Sunday, 15:00
Live on BT Sport 1

Match Odds: Arsenal 3.45n/a, Man City 2.285/4, The Draw 3.613/5

It wasn't an eternity since the World Cup concluded - indeed it was just four weeks ago - so football fans haven't been starved of action, but that doesn't render the arrival of the Community Shield any less invigorating a moment.

Helping to further fuel anticipation is the season-starter's burgeoning reputation as a source of great entertainment. The last four Big Seven-exclusive contests (ie not mismatches like Man United v Wigan last term) all served up four goals or more, with 18 scored in total.

There hasn't been a single clean sheet kept in the last seven between members of the Premier League's elite, with the latter two finishing 3-2. As Arsenal and Man City's two 2013/14 clashes delivered 11 goals, over 2.5 goals looks a must-back at 1.84/5. Brasher punters may prefer the 2.8815/8 on over 3.5 goals.

This writer doesn't feel as strongly about the match outcome as the overs, yet is more inclined to side with Man City at 2.285/4 than Arsenal at 3.45n/a because they have won four of their last seven head-to-heads to the Gunners' one and the Londoners are missing their German World Cup winners.

To score

Edin Dzeko should start with Alvaro Negredo injured and Sergio Aguero confirmed not to be participating having only returned to training on Monday, and if he commences 2014/15 in the manner that he closed 2013/14, then he is the most likely hero of this Wembley showpiece.

The Bosnian striker notched nine times in his final 11 appearances, his big-game aptitude evidenced by braces away to Man United and Everton, and also netted on his previous Community Shield start against the Red Devils in 2011 (he was granted a mere two-minute cameo the following year).

Best Bet: Back over 2.5 goals @ 1.84/5
Other Recommended Bet: Back Edin Dzeko to score @ 2.89/5

For five more bet recommendations, check out this look at the Community Shield wagers that almost always pay out