Ferguson prepared for fired-up Arsenal

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says his side would be foolish to expect a repeat of their 8-2 win over Arsenal in Sunday’s meeting.

United humiliated Arsenal at Old Trafford in August, but since then Arsene Wenger’s side have improved immensely, and Ferguson is anticipating a far tougher encounter at Emirates Stadium.

“There will be no chance of that (a repeat of the 8-2 win) – there won’t be a lot between the two teams on Sunday,” Ferguson said.

“I just hope that we can get the result we want and need. It will be a difficult game. Arsenal have only lost six goals at home this season, which is the second-best defensive record so we’re well aware that it’ll be a hard game.”

“I think that they have recovered well. They had a really good spell and they’ve qualified for the next stages of the Champions League so there’s not a lot wrong there.”

“They’ve had to contend with some injuries to defenders, particularly their full backs (Bacary) Sagna and (Kieran) Gibbs, who have both been injured for quite a while now.”

“They’ve equipped themselves well.”

The 70-year-old revealed long-term absentees Ashley Young and Tom Cleverley have stepped up their rehabilitation from ankle injuries.

Although the pair are still unable to be considered for selection, Ferguson said defensive duo Phil Jones and Chris Smalling will be available.

“I think we’re a lot better in terms of the injury situation this week,” he said.

“Smalling and Jones will be fit, which no doubt helps in terms of defenders. Other than that, Cleverley and Young have started doing serious running, which is good. Anderson is still a bit short after his injury in training last week, so we’re looking a little better.”

“It would be a great boost to us if he (Cleverley) and Ashley (Young) came back to us.”

“They’re influential players and the way that Cleverley started the season was phenomenal.”

“I’ve not seen that impact from a young player at a club in a long time. He’s been a loss because he’s got something different from everyone else. If he does come back, which will hopefully be the case, then it can only be good news for us.”