Wayne Rooney: Striker believes Manchester United win over Arsenal will change everything

United go into the Old Trafford showdown eight points behind the league leaders after a difficult start to the campaign under new manager David Moyes.

But Rooney, who has scored nine goals in 17 appearances so far this season, is confident a win for his side would transform the title race picture and increase the chances of the league trophy remaining in Manchester.

"I think at the minute there's 28 games to go, anything can happen, one result can turn the league on its head," he told Weekend Warm-Up.

"We're still within touching distance and to get a victory on Sunday will put us in a great position I think.

"It is the perfect fixture for us. Arsenal are obviously doing really well but with our current form, it is a chance for us to get a bit closer in the table.

"I think for us all it's a massive game, Arsenal are doing really well so for us it's a chance to get closer in the table and keep our current form going.

"I've always enjoyed the games against Arsenal, it's a great club and it's great to play against them obviously and to score. Especially when you score winning goals because they're big games."

United went an eighth game without loss when they drew 0-0 at Real Sociedad in midweek but it was Arsenal who produced the eye-catching UEFA Champions League result of the round with a 1-0 win at least season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund.

The Gunners' start to the campaign had been an excellent one and they lead the division by five points from a trio of rivals.

Rooney admits the north London side have made clear improvements and says it will be 'interesting' to see if they can continue their strong form and avoid a traditional late-season collapse.

"I think they've got some great players and you know they're a good team," said Rooney, whose first Premier League goal came against Arsenal more than 11 years ago.

"I said the other day after the game it will be interesting to see if they can maintain that, certainly over the last six or seven years they've faded off.

"But they seem in a better place, they seem stronger so it will be interesting to see.

"We know we will have to be at our best to beat them but we are capable of that.

"I have always enjoyed my games against them and it has always been a big

game. Hopefully we can get the right result on Sunday."

Watch Manchester United's vital game against Arsenal live on Sky Sports 1 HD on Sunday from 4.00pm