Manchester United striker Robin van Persie believes that the Red Devils are "clear favourites" to retain the Premier League title this season.
The Dutchman scored both goals in this afternoon's Community Shield victory over Wigan Athletic at Wembley and said his team have not lost their edge despite the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson.
"We're doing really well and I believe in this team," Sky Sports News quotes the 30-year-old as saying.
"We are the champions and based on that we are clear favourites. I believe in this team and I believe that we will compete until the end again."
Van Persie scored 26 league goals last season.
