UNITED will take a huge stride towards the knockout stages of the Champions League if they can maintain their 100% record in Group F and defeat FC Copenhagen.

Here is a look at the key battles at Old Trafford:

RIO FERDINAND v MARCUS ALLBACK

A back spasm ruled Ferdinand out of England's clash with Macedonia but he returned for the defeat to Croatia and played in the weekend win against Wigan. The 27-year-old is regarded as the cornerstone of United's defence. Allback netted against Ferdinand when Sweden faced England at the World Cup, and although the 2-2 draw did not spell the end for Sven-Goran Eriksson's men, their weaknesses were highlighted. Allback had an unsuccessful spell at Aston Villa but still offers a physical edge in attack.

MICHAEL CARRICK v TOBIAS LINDEROTH

Carrick has not enjoyed the smoothest of starts to his United career after joining from Tottenham in the summer. The midfielder has been billed as Roy Keane's midfield successor but is less mobile and prefers to pick his passes. Criticised for allowing matches to pass him by. Linderoth is in a similar mould to Carrick, passing his way out of trouble while also offering a shield for his defence. The 27-year-old Sweden international had a spell at Everton before joining Copenhagen in 2004. Linderoth did not travel with the rest of the squad to Manchester because he is currently with his heavily pregnant wife. However, he could still make the game.

WAYNE ROONEY v BREDE HANGELAND

Rooney enjoyed a return to form against Wigan and that could spell danger for Copenhagen. Hangeland is a striking figure in the Copenhagen defence as he is one of the tallest players in the Danish league. The Norway defender was part of the Viking team which knocked Chelsea out of the UEFA Cup in 2002.

Where do you think the game will be won and lost? Have your say.

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