Manchester United v Arsenal: Five key Old Trafford battles

Although, dominant centre back Smalling has become Van Gaal’s most reliable member of the rearguard, but he will face a tough task of contesting with Arsenal’s in-form Frenchman Giroud, who has netted an impressive 18 times in all competitions and is (13/2 to score first).

Marouane Fellaini v Aaron Ramsey
Van Gaal has utilised Belgium international target man in his best position this season, and it has worked wonders, with Fellaini striking 10 vital goals, including the winner over Crystal palace last time out.

Welsh wizard Ramsey will need to channel the form he showed last term in order to fire his side to victory but, with his dominant opposition in fine form and possessing astute aerial abilities, it could be a genuinely intriguing midfield match-up. Both players have endured many battles before during Fellaini’s Everton days and when Belgium clashed with Wales last year, so expect a feisty confrontation at Old Trafford.

Mezut Ozil v Daley Blind
Playmaker Ozil has had an indifferent season, coming under fire for performances earlier in the campaign when he drifted in and out of proceedings, but more recently has received high praise for showcasing supreme creative qualities in the number 10 role.

Dutchman Blind has shone this term from a left back position but in the holding midfield role, when deputising in the absence of Michael Carrick, the Netherlands international has been questioned. Arsenal’s key creative spark may enjoy himself at Old Trafford with Carrick still out injured and is 7/2 to net anytime.

Per Mertesacker v Robin van Persie
Another interesting battle will be between these former Emirates teammates, with United’s deadly Dutchman aiming to secure his side’s place in the Champions League next season.

With three goals to his name against past employers Arsenal, Red Devil’s returning striker Van Persie will be confident of again getting the better of World Cup wining defender Mertesacker, having headed home the winner at Old Trafford last season and netted a goal in each fixture in a triumphant 2012/13 campaign when Mertesacker started both games.