The rivalry between Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson is the longest running in English football, but there is no mistaking where the balance of power lies right now.
Ferguson's Manchester United side are heading for a fourth title in five seasons, while Arsenal have not won silverware since beating the Red Devils in the 2005 FA Cup final.
An away win on Sunday would give United a fifth successive victory against Arsenal in all competitions. The last time either side enjoyed a spell of such dominance in this fixture was 26 years ago, shortly before Ferguson took over at Old Trafford.
Wenger concedes Arsenal's title chances are "minimal" after a run of one win from seven league games. The remainder of the season is about damage limitation for the Gunners, who must now focus on securing a Champions League spot.
United may have managed just five away wins in the Premier League this term, but confidence will be high after a hugely impressive performance away to Schalke in midweek. The Red Devils will almost certainly return to north London in four weeks time to contest the Champions League final at Wembley.
Arsenal
Doubtful: Rosicky (illness)
Injured: Bartley (knee), Diaby (calf), Fabianski (shoulder), Mannone (thigh), Vermaelen (Achilles)
Manchester United
Suspended: Scholes (one match)
Injured/unavailable: Fletcher (virus), Hargreaves (shoulder)
Robin van Persie |
Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez |
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