It seems unthinkable that an Old Trafford meeting that conjures up memories of some classic Cup clashes when Leeds were a major force in the 1960s and 1970s, could now be seen as an unwelcome distraction for both teams.
However, such is the reduced allure of the world's oldest knockout competition, which Manchester United have won a record 11 times, that it could well be a reserves parade on Sunday.
Recent opponents have included Brentford, Accrington Stanley, Hartlepool United and Stockport County and their fans, whose team reached a Champions League semi-final nine years ago, will savour a now rare visit to opponents who once feared them.
VICIOUSLY RUGGED
A total of more than 173,000 fans watched two viciously rugged goalless draws, followed by a second replay again decided by a solitary goal from Bremner at Bolton's old Burnden Park ground which put Leeds into the final against Chelsea.
Coincidentally, that season's other semi-final, which saw the eventual Cup winners Chelsea crush Watford 5-1 at White Hart Lane, is also being reprised this weekend.
Forty seasons ago it was unthinkable that teams would field weakened teams in the FA Cup and although Leeds manager Simon Grayson is yet to reveal his hand for Sunday's game he gave a hint when he said after the draw: "The league is our bread and butter. It's the league that counts and picking up points to get us closer to where we want to be.
"Promotion is the priority here - everyone knows that."
There are three all-Premier League ties this weekend, with Sunday's West Ham United v Arsenal game - a repeat of the 1980 final when West Ham became the last club from outside the top flight to win the FA Cup - the pick of them.
