Diego Costa is expected to play some part in Chelsea's trip to Old Trafford, despite Jose Mourinho's insistence that he is suffering from recurrent hamstring problems and a virus.
Manchester United have worries over Radamel Falcao's fitness and Wayne Rooney is suspended. Michael Carrick is also reportedly due to start the game.
A win for the hosts could see them edge into fifth place, replacing Arsenal, while victory for Chelsea would put them six points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League.
The match also represents a clash between two coaches who notably worked together at Barcelona for three years. Louis van Gaal has described his former assistant as a substitute coach.
Last season Chelsea came away from Old Trafford with a creditable 0-0 draw after Mourinho opted to play with a largely defensive set-up - although that was before Manchester City and Liverpool thrashed the former Premier League champions.
Manchester United vs Chelsea is live on Sky Sports 1 from 3.30pm. Kick off is at 4pm
