Given the history of fixtures that proceeds these two sides, this clash at Old Trafford certainly features feels like it’s in the lower echelons of importance.
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But it’s not entirely meaningless given the impact this fixture could have on how both sides qualify for next season’s Champions League, after both’s involvement in Europe’s top competition was confirmed yesterday with Liverpool’s loss to Crystal Palace.
Win and Arsenal are certain of at least third place and avoid the detestable early season qualifier, and will even have a decent shout at pipping Manchester City to second.
Lose and United will overtake them – albeit having played a game more – but it would put extra pressure and further significance on the Gunners to win their final two Premier League fixtures this season to secure a bronze medal, a pressure they will not want given their upcoming FA Cup final with Aston Villa.
Arsenal may have beaten United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup this season, but have failed to win there in the league since 2006 – and will have to do it without Cup conqueror Danny Welbeck who sits out the game with a knee injury.
Aaron Ramsey faces a late fitness test after only returning to training on Friday after a knock against Swansea – and Arsene Wenger faces a question over whether he was to risk the Welshman with the aforementioned Villa final to come.
Wayne Rooney – who’s scored 14 goals against the north Londoners, his most prolific total against one side – has been confirmed out by Louis van Gaal as has Luke Shaw.
Michael Carrick also looks like he’ll miss out and Johnny Evans is 50/50.
However, Angel Di Maria, Marcos Rojo and former Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie are fit once against.
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