Rooney’s record

He may not be the most prolific player as he once was but Wayne Rooney has caused Arsenal plenty of problems in the past. His record of 13 goals in all competitions against the Gunners speaks for itself and he will be a massive threat yet again unless Arsenal can shut him down. Rooney showed his qualities in the two clubs last meeting this season when he scored United’s second goal in their 2-1 win at The Emirates. The 29-year-old has featured in midfield for most of the season but even then he can cause Arsenal all sorts of trouble. His quality can distract the Arsenal back four regardless of where he plays and it will be a tough task for Arsene Wenger to find ways of stopping Rooney. The England international’s ability to take on opponents and attract attention of the opposition defenders will prove crucial for United if they are to overcome a good Arsenal side. By drawing the attention of the opponents, Rooney twill make it easier for his team-mates to find the net.

Front-man Fellaini

Marouane Fellaini may not have proven to be the player many would have expected or wanted him to be when he signed for Manchester United. The Belgian international has found life at Old Trafford difficult and he clearly has not justified his expensive price tag. However, in recent weeks Louis van Gaal has found a way to get the best out of him. His height and power inside the penalty area have proven to be crucial for United when chasing the game. He demonstrated this against West Ham United and Preston North End in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively when he used his best assets to help United get back into the games. Long-ball play may not be something United fans desire from their side but when they have needed a goal in the past, this tactic has proved vital for them. Fellaini’s ability to score from crosses or assist his teammates by heading the ball to them gives United that advantage when they are seeking a late goal. Fellaini may not be the best option to start with up front but if United are in need of a goal with 15-20 minutes left, then van Gaal would be wise to bring him on.

Exploiting Arsenal on the counter-attack

If there is something Arsene Wenger has failed to deal with in recent years, it is his side’s vulnerability on the counter-attack. They have struggled with this time and time again in the past and Monaco demonstrated that effectively when they scored two goals on the counter in their 3-1 win at The Emirates in the Champions League last month. Manchester United did so as well when Rooney scored late on in their 2-1 win at Arsenal in November. If United decide to sit deep, remain patient and rob Arsenal off the ball at the right time, then Van Gaal’s men will have plenty of opportunities to exploit of their opponents on the counter. Per Mertesacker is likely to feature against United with Gabriel Paulista out injured and his lack of pace will give United an advantage when going forward. An early United goal would be a huge boost for Van Gaal’s side as this would force Arsenal to push forward for the rest of the match, leaving plenty of room for errors at the back.