YOU would have long odds on Dundee United being six points ahead of Aberdeen at this stage of the season and in a European spot, with the Dons struggling in the bottom six.
But there's no doubt out of the so-called rookie bosses, United's Tam Courts has enjoyed a far better season so far than Aberdeen's Stephen Glass.
Aberdeen's recent mini-revival came to a shuddering halt in their last game before the winter break when they crashed to a shock defeat to Motherwell after collecting seven points from three games against Hibs, Rangers and Hearts.
But that sums up Aberdeen's inconsistencies. They regularly dominate games and have plenty of the ball, but they have real issues in defence and in goal. Basically, they should be doing a lot better than their results suggest.
United had been on a great run, but there have been signs the wheels have started to show signs of wear and tear after defeats to St Johnstone and a hammering from Hearts.
So while it's not exactly a New Firm to streak fear into the rest of Scottish football, it;s a huge game for both clubs.
How the bookies view it
Aberdeen are favourites across the board which is perhaps surprising given United have home advantage and both sides' respective seasons.
The hosts can be backed at 11/5 with SBK, with the Pittodrie side 29/20 with Unibet. The draw is 9/4 with McBookie.com.
Recent head to heads
Aberdeen comfortably beat United on the opening day of the league season with a 2-0 win as can be seen below.
However, last season the Dons failed to beat or even score against United.
Players to watch
Peter Pawlett baby used to be sung at Pittodrie, but nowadays he's plying his trade at Tannadice and he will be out to prove a point. He scored some important goals for Aberdeen and he's already on a respectable five for the season with United and is an attractive 11/2 to score anytime with bet365.
Christian Ramirez is already on double figures for the season with Aberdeen and the USA international has been a huge success for Aberdeen. He's 11/8 to score anytime in Dundee.
Anything else catch the eye?
There have been signs that United might be regressing recently and Aberdeen should be able to take advantage. Yes, the Dons have let their backers down this season but they are heading in the right direction.
They have a stronger squad than United and have already beaten them easily this term.
If they are to win, there's a very good chance Ramirez will be the man to do the damage and the 11/4 for an Aberdeen win and him to score anytime seems fair with bet365.
This Scottish Premiership match between Dundee United and Aberdeen will be played on Nov 20, 2021 and kick off at 15:00. Check below for our tipsters best Dundee United vs Aberdeen prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
