Striker John Carew remains Aston Villa's major injury doubt.

The Norway international missed the midweek win over Tottenham after sustaining a knee injury in the early stages of the victory against Wigan.

Villa manager Martin O'Neill has not completely ruled out Carew but it will be a major surprise if he is fit enough to face the Red Devils.

If Carew is still sidelined then O'Neill is likely to name the side which overcame Spurs, although Shaun Maloney could push for a starting place after Luke Moore spurned two golden chances in that match.

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will return to the side for the FA Cup match against Aston Villa after recovering from a groin injury.

He will replace Tomas Kuszczak between the posts for the third-round tie.

Wayne Rooney will travel after returning to training following a virus that caused him to miss the victory against Birmingham in midweek.

Carlos Tevez remains doubtful after suffering an ankle injury during that game. Sir Alex Ferguson is relishing the challenge of facing Villa after knocking them out last season. In fact they have almost become fated to meet in England's top knockout competition.

Ferguson said: "Being drawn together four times in seven years is a bit curious.

"When I saw their name come out, I feared the worst. It is a difficult draw and a massive game for us.

"Villa's form and our own form point to a really good Cup tie. Hopefully we can get through it.

"We enjoy going to the ground and perhaps we can recapture the atmosphere of the semi-finals we have played there.

"Villa Park has got a real football feel to it. The pitch is great as well."