Manchester, Feb 10: Manchester United were in a similar situation last season, way ahead of Manchester City in the title race, and in April last season Everton came back twice to finish 4-4. Sir Alex Ferguson still feels that result changed it all.

The Toffees also managed to beat United 1-0 at Goodison Park earlier in the season. The Red Devils have a tricky Champions League test against the mighty Real Madrid but they have a big enough squad to cope with it.

Recent wins against Fulham and Southampton haven't been convincing for United and one might fancy Everton to do the double over their rivals. However, the Toffees have not won at Old Trafford in their 20 visits and their record at home doesn't sound good for any opponent. United have won nine straight home games and 19 of the last 21 league games.

Everton have won twice in their last five league games, drawing the rest three. David Moyes' side had to come back to draw 3-3 against Aston Villa last time out. Marouane Fellaini, who is doubtfull for the clash at Old Trafford due to a hip injury, scored twice to secure a point.

Everton, currently in sixth place with 42 points, have lost only three games this season, equak with United and more than Manchester City.

United welcome back Ashley Young after being absent for five games with a knee injury while Phil Jones and Michael Carrick have both recovered from injuries.

Meanwhile, Moyes is optimistic midfielder Fellaini will be available to take on United. Fellaini did not play in Belgium's 2-1 win over Slovakia after suffering a hip injury.

Trivia:

*Everton last victory at Old Trafford came in the first Premier League encounter in August 1992.

*Everton last made the double over United in the 1969-70 season.

*United's 62 points in 25 games is a club record.

Probable Lineups:

Manchester United (4-4-2): Lindegaard-Smalling, Jones, Evans, Buttner-Valencia, Anderson, Giggs, Nani-Welbeck, Hernandez.

Everton (4-4-2): Howard-Jagielka, Distin, Heitinga, Baines-Mirallas, Gibson, Osman, Pienaar-Fellaini-Anichebe.

OneIndia News