Manchester United vs Arsenal preview:Louis van Gaal’s Red Devils look to close in on top four

A look ahead to the Premier League fixture at Old Trafford

Marcus Rashford celebrates his first goal of the game (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

Anthony Martial: In the absence of United’s top scorer, Wayne Rooney, the Frenchman will face Arsenal as Louis Van Gaal’s top scorer with 10 goals this season. However, he pulled up in the warm-up against FC Midtjylland and couldn't play on Thursday night. The Gunners visit Old Trafford on the back of a decent defensive display for much of the game against Barcelona in midweek – who possess arguably the best attacking trio in world football – so it is up to the 20-year-old to break it down. A decent opportunity is open for Martial to prove he can beat the best, having failed to score against any of the current top four this campaign.

Best stat…

6: Manchester United have been dominant against Arsenal in recent meetings at Old Trafford, winning six of their past eight in the league, drawing twice.

Remember when…

The Gunners comfortably beat United 3-0 earlier in the season, to end a run of eight league matches without victory. An Alexis Sanchez double and effort from Mesut Ozil killed the game off in the first 20 minutes.

Player to watch…

Danny Welbeck: The 25-year-old returns to Old Trafford, having left for Arsenal at the beginning of last season and, like all players, will want to prove to his former club what they are missing out on. An injury-plagued season has meant the Arsenal front man has made just three appearances, but scored on his return in a vital title top-of-the-table clash with Leicester City. He clearly hasn’t forgotten where the goal is during his absence and will look to make the most of what is left of the season and prove to Arsene Wenger he will be a valuable asset next season.

Past three meetings…

Arsenal 3 (Sanchez 2, Ozil) Manchester United 0, Premier League, October 2015.

Manchester United 1 (Herrera) Arsenal 1 (Blackett OG), Premier League, May 2015.

Manchester United 1 (Rooney) Arsenal 2 (Monreal, Welbeck), FA Cup, March 2015.

Form guide…

Manchester United: WWDLLW

Arsenal: WDWWDL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 2.05pm

TV: Sky Sports 1, Sunday 1.00pm.