Having qualified for the Champions League final with a double win over Schalke, Manchester United prepare for what will be a decisive clash in the Premiership title race.

United squandered the big advantage at the top and are now just three points clear of Chelsea, meaning a defeat at Old Trafford would probably mean a farewell to the title.

However, Sir Alex Ferguson managed to rest almost all starters in the Schalke game, while he also received a major boost as Darren Fletcher finally returned into action following the lengthy spell on the sidelines.

“It wouldn’t have been fair to pitch Darren in from the start because he really does need games,” Ferguson was quoted as saying.

“But he is catching up all the time and we may get him on the bench against Chelsea on Sunday with a view to getting more game time. Some players are big-game players and he is one.

“The perfect example is Mark Hughes, he was one of the best big-game players in United’s history. He never failed in a big game and Darren is the same type of player.”

Patrice Evra, on the other hand, picked up a thigh injury after coming on as a sub against Schalke and he remains a doubt for the Chelsea game.

Should he fail to recover in time, John O’Shea or Fabio will be vying for the left-back spot. Manchester United remain the favourites to win this clash and they are priced 2.40 (7/5) with Paddy Power, whereas Chelsea are 3.30 (23/10) with Victor Chandler to win at Old Trafford and make a giant step towards the league title.