Here we examine the likely key battles at Old Trafford:

RIO FERDINAND v EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR

Ferdinand shook off a foot injury to face Italian giants Roma on Wednesday. His composure and leadership at the heart of Sir Alex Ferguson's defence has earned him rave reviews this term and he was given the England captain's armband for last month's friendly international against France.

Togo international Adebayor has been one of the stars of Arsenal's season and has netted an impressive 25 times in all competitions. He also struck the winner at Old Trafford in the corresponding Premier League fixture last term. Ferdinand will need every ounce of his pace, power and determination to control Arsenal's handful of a striker.

CESC FABREGAS v PAUL SCHOLES

Big games against the Gunners come as nothing new to Scholes, with the midfielder into his 16th year in Manchester United colours. While big names have come and gone from Old Trafford, Scholes remains one of United's key movers and shakers.

But he will have his work cut out to contain 20-year-old Spanish sensation Fabregas, who is already on his way to becoming one of the world's finest. His distribution from open play and set pieces have provided no shortage of headaches for clubs in the Premier League and Europe. Both players love to get forward and get on the scoresheet, so it could be left to others to keep them in check on Sunday.

GAEL CLICHY v CRISTIANO RONALDO

Clichy will aim to erase the memory of a rough night against Liverpool on Tuesday by keeping one of the world's greatest talents quiet for the afternoon. His pace will prove vital in keeping tabs on Portugal star Ronaldo as well as helping the Gunners on the counter attack.

Ronaldo continues to improve game by game and has netted an unbelievable 37 times in all competitions this term. His licence to roam could give the entire Arsenal back line an uncomfortable afternoon. But if Clichy can closely shadow the midfielder, he may be able to stop Ronaldo running riot and securing United the win.