Michael Carrick issues a stern caution to Manchester United

Manchester United were defeated eight times last term as they were beaten to the title by a single point by Chelsea.

Chelsea began the defence of their crown with a resounding 6-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

Manchester United midfielder Carrick warned his side "There isn't much margin for error." He went on to add "Last season was a bit of a freak in terms of how many games both us and Chelsea lost and how many points were dropped."

"Competition is pretty fierce again now."

"Teams who have finished around the Champions League places are looking to break through and you really have to start firing from the off."

Carrick believes that Newcastle will be competitive in the upcoming game saying "Newcastle will be flying." "They are back in the Premier League and what better place to start than Old Trafford".

Carrick, who hails from Wallsend in Tyne and Ware went on to say "It is only two years ago that we played them in the first game at old Trafford and drew. Hopefully it will be better this time."

A trip to Old Trafford is not what Magpies boss Chris Hughton would have wished for, for his side’s first match back in the Premier league. "It will be a massive challenge for us" he said. "But this is what we worked so hard for last season to get straight back up into this division."

"It's probably not the ideal choice. I think the ideal choice would have been to have a home game."

Hughton draws inspiration from Newcastle’s visit to Old Trafford two years ago, where they drew 1-1.

"We certainly gave a very good account of ourselves so we're aware that everything's possible even though we're massive underdogs."

"In some ways it relieves a little bit of pressure but the pressure we want to put on ourselves, whether it be at Old Trafford or Anfield or wherever, is we mustn't go there with any fear."

"To get something from the game we're going to have to play well and Manchester United possibly not have such a good day, but that is possible."

The home side will be without centre-half Rio Ferdinand due to a knee injury. They will also be without Owen Hargreaves and Anderson who are both have long term injuries.

Wayne Rooney, Michael Owen, Dimitar Berbatov and new recruit Javier Hernandez are all vying for a striking berth in the Red Devils lineup.

Carrick is also keen to be involved. His performances at the end of last season for Manchester United were disappointing and he failed to play a single game for England in the World Cup.

"I am more determined than ever. When you don't get what you want, it hurts. You want it again badly."

"I am hungry for success, just as I was when I first came here."

Andy Carroll is expected to lead the line for Newcastle. New signings Sol Campbell and Dan Gosling will miss the game. Centre half, Campbell is still working on his match fitness, whilst Gosling will miss the first few months of the season due to knee surgery.

Defender, James Perch who was signed from Nottingham Forest is expected to line up for the Magpies in his first Premier League match.