Premier League preview: Manchester United v Arsenal

Struggling Arsenal face the unenviable task of travelling to Old Trafford to meet Manchester United on Sunday.

United, even without central defenders Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, thrashed Tottenham 3-0 and will be full of confidence ahead of their meeting against Arsene Wenger’s team.

Arsenal qualified for the UEFA Champions League group stages with a 2-1 win over Udinese in the second leg on Wednesday, but there are still several worries despite the victory.

Midfielder Samir Nasri has departed for Manchester City, leaving another hole for Wenger to fill in midfield after Cesc Fabregas got his move to Barcelona.

Tomas Rosicky and Andrei Arshavin were both initially brought in to provide some spark in midfield, but they are struggling for form.

Rennes midfielder Yann M’Vila is reportedly a target for Wenger, who needs to sign at least one playmaker before the transfer window closes on August 31.

Forward Gervinho is still out through suspension, likewise midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong, while Jack Wilshere has been a big loss because of injury.

It makes for a tough trip to Manchester, whose youngsters have been able to fill the void left by Ferdinand and Vidic.

Phil Jones has made a fantastic start to his United career, Jonny Evans has done little wrong, while midfielder Tom Cleverley continues to impress.

Ferdinand could be back for the clash against Arsenal, but Sir Alex Ferguson has unexpected depth in defence if he chooses not to risk him.

Wayne Rooney has scored in both matches, while Danny Welbeck also netted against Tottenham and could keep Javier Hernandez, expected to be available for a starting berth after coming on as a substitute on Monday, on the bench.

While Ferguson has Evans, Jones and Chris Smalling as back-up, Wenger has had little to choose from in his squad.

New captain Robin van Persie has had little impact without service and while the defence has been solid, keeping Manchester United at bay at Old Trafford should prove too big an ask.