Man Utd v Spurs preview

Red Devils take on Spurs at Old Trafford

By James Pearson   Last updated: 25th January 2008

Paul Scholes

Scholes: Back in training

PREDICTIONS:

Skysports.com prediction: Man Utd 3 Tottenham 2

SKY BET odds: Man. Utd 1/2 Draw 5/2 Tottenham 5/1

One to Watch: Wayne Rooney

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Manchester United have the weight of history on their side as they prepare to face Tottenham in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

The Red Devils have an impressive recent record against the North Londoners, having gone unbeaten in 13 outings and winning 11 of those meetings.

The pair met in the third round 11 years ago, a game Sir Alex Ferguson's side won courtesy of goals from Paul Scholes and David Beckham.

However, Spurs will be quietly confident of an upset having thumped arch-rivals Arsenal 5-1 in the second leg of their Carling Cup semi-final in midweek.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos also has a proven pedigree in cup competitions having helped Sevilla win the Uefa Cup, Uefa Super Cup, Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de Espana during his time in Spain.

Outside chance

Experienced midfielder Scholes has an outside chance of featuring for United after making his return to full training following a knee operation.

A knee problem is likely to prevent Louis Saha from playing so the lethal partnership of Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez are set to lead the line.

Ryan Giggs could be recalled in place of Park Ji-sung, while Gary Neville is unlikely to be risked as he recovers from a long-standing ankle knock.

Unchanged

Ramos is likely to stick with the heroes that booked a place in the Carling Cup final as Spurs look to extend their winning sequence to four games.

However, the Spanish tactician will be forced into one change with defender Pascal Chimbonda out through suspension.

Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov are expected to lead the line, with the Bulgarian up against the side he has been strongly linked with during the January transfer window.

Teemu Tainio, Steed Malbranque, Jermaine Jenas and Aaron Lennon should make up Spurs' midfield, although Tom Huddlestone, Jamie O'Hara and Kevin-Prince Boateng will all be hoping to be involved.