JOHN Hartson believes Swansea City have been handed the "perfect" opportunity to beat Manchester United after it was announced the Swans would begin next season with a home clash against the reigning champions.
David Moyes's first Premier League match in charge of United will be at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday August 17, though the date is subject to change with the match likely to be chosen for live television coverage.
Michael Laudrup's side have yet to win against United in their four Premier League encounters so far, but Wales assistant coach Hartson reckons the opening weekend will be the ideal time for the Swans to confront the title holders.
"Swansea, with a home crowd, could catch United on an off-day," said Hartson, a lifelong Swansea supporter.
"What a great day to play the champions, the first day of the season. I'm sure Laudrup and the players will be very excited. For me, it's the perfect fixture.
"I think it's a great fixture, I really do. In my opinion, David Moyes has to win the Premier League next season.
"Sir Alex Ferguson has left him in a great position – a fantastic group of players to work with, all the money in the world to make a marquee signing.
"There will be a red-hot atmosphere on a boiling hot day, and what an opportunity it will be to have a right good go at them.
"You're up against the champions, it's Moyes's first proper game in charge. What a time to play them."
Swansea's second fixture will be a trip to Tottenham, while the first ever Premier League South Wales derby will take place at the Cardiff City Stadium on November 2.
"What an occasion for the two clubs. I enjoyed my career but I wish I'd featured in one of these derbies," Hartson added.
"These games are not for the faint-hearted and I think that would have suited me down to the ground."
Cardiff will then visit the Liberty on February 8. Click here for the Swans' full fixture list for the 2013-14 season: http://www.southwales-eveningpost.co.uk/Swansea-City-Premier-League-fixtures-2013-2014/story-19328125-detail/story.html
John Hartson was speaking at the launch of the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League fixtures. To share your views on the new season go to facebook.com/BarclaysFootball or join the conversation with @BarclaysFooty using #BPLfixtures
