Manchester United vs Arsenal: Old Trafford a major advantage for Red Devils, believes Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger believes that Manchester United have an advantage in their FA Cup tie against his side because the Old Trafford outfit have an enviable record against the Gunners at home.

The north London club last managed to defeat United away from home in 2006 and since have lost nine of the ensuing 10 games, while drawing just one. It is a major opportunity for the Gunners to get the spring back in their step and perform well in a major tournament after succumbing to pressure against Monaco in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie at the Emirates.

A loss here will end their hopes of securing a trophy this season after winning the FA Cup last season and ending their nine-year quest for a trophy. It is a brilliant opportunity for the Gunners to get one over their bitter rivals, with Louis van Gaal's side struggling to live up to expectations in the league and are currently a point behind the Gunners on fourth spot.

The previous league fixture between the two sides ended in a 2-1 loss for the Gunners after a fortuitous own goal from Kieran Gibbs opened the gates for United to surge forward and secure an impressive win.

"For years, it was always the game of the season that decided the Premier League. At the moment it's not the case but it's still a big game," Wenger told the official Arsenal website.

"You go there and I don't expect any weakness from Man United. I know that if we want to qualify, we have to produce a strong performance. They have lost two games in 22 so if you want to beat them, you have to produce a performance.

"We just want to qualify. Let's not consider Man United. Let's focus on our performances of the day.

"In the cup, you give it your all. We know that they have a little advantage because they play at Old Trafford where they feel confident. To compensate for that, we have to put more effort in and produce a top-level performance," he concluded.