Kevin Blackwell is looking forward to United's testing Carling Cup clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Without a league win in the last four games, the United chief sees the fixture against Arsenal as respite.

"It is a good break from the league challenge and I suppose it comes at a good time for us," said Blackwell. "The game will be a good opportunity for us to try one or two things but Arsenal hammered us 3-0 in the Cup last season so we know what we are up against.

"Playing against Arsenal is frightening for any Club but this is the Cup and if you believe something can happen, it might.

"The Emirates Stadium is a fantastic place and a great set-up, almost like a Subbuteo stadium it is so perfect, and our reports say that Arsenal are playing some exceptional stuff."

Arsene Wenger is reported to be ready to make changes to his Premiership team. A young squad including Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere, Gavin Hoyte and Kieran Gibbs is expected to take the field.

For United, Darius Henderson (knee) and Matthew Spring (ankle) remain sidelined and Blackwell could make changes, like he has in previous rounds.

"Selection is a bit of a dilemma because of suspension and injury, and the fact that I have changed the team for the earlier Carling Cup rounds, but everyone will be wanting to play," said Blackwell.