David Moyes made an inauspicious start to his tenure as United manager, with the club winning just two of their opening six league matches.
But the reigning champions have recovered well from that start, and a 1-0 victory over Arsenal before the international break left them just five points adrift of Arsene Wenger's table toppers.
United's form is even more ominous considering the side have amassed 20 points from 11 matches, and have gone on to claim the Premier League title with a lower points tally at the same stage on three occasions.
Ahead of the fixture United have issues in midfield with Michael Carrick ruled out by an Achilles injury and Phil Jones almost certain to sit out with a groin problem.
Moyes expects to have Nemanja Vidic available after he was withdrawn in the Arsenal fixture with concussion, while Rafael (ankle) and Robin van Persie (toe and groin) will hope to be in contention, but the fixture is likely to come too soon for Danny Welbeck (knee).
Peter Odemwingie should also shake off a knock picked up in training in time to feature against Moyes' charges.
