Fulham start their festive schedule with a home game against reigning Premier League champions, but the Cottagers are not without chances in this clash as they traditionally do well in their home games with Manchester United.

Having successfully passed the obstacle called Queens Park Rangers, the Red Devils are hoping to record their fifth successive Premier League victory on the travels.

Fulham may not be a force to be reckoned with in English football, but they boast an impressive record in home games against Manchester United, which gives them reason for optimism before this clash.

The Cottagers won two of their last three home games against the Red Devils, drawing the third game, and with that in mind, odds of 5.50 (9/2) offered by Ladbrokes on home win do look tempting.

Martin Jol’s side enter the match in good spirits, having finally escaped the danger zone with a home win over Bolton and the hosts have got to try and get something from this game, as matches with Chelsea, Norwich and Arsenal are also on agenda during the festive schedule.

Bobby Zamora remains doubtful with a knee problem, but Steve Sidwell, Mark Schwarzer and Simon Davies continue to miss out.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Stockdale – Baird, Hangeland, Senderos, Riise – Ruiz, Etuhu, Murphy, Dempsey – Dembele, Johnson.

Following the big dip in form that occurred at the end of November, Manchester United are slowly raising their game and they are now looking to end the year as Premiership leaders.

Disappointing exits from the Champions League and Carling Cup didn’t have such a bad effect on the squad, as United eased off to wins against Wolverhampton and Queens Park Rangers.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men could be in for a much tougher task at Craven Cottage, but odds of 1.75 (3/4) offered by Unibet on away win look too good to pass.

Fergie is still without quite a few first team regulars, but this is where his big squad comes into the equation, making things a lot easier for the experienced manager.

Javier Hernandez has returned into action, but he may have to settle for a place on the bench, whereas Vidic, Fletcher, Anderson, Fabio, Rafael, Cleverley and Owen remain sidelined.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): De Gea – Smalling, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra – Carrick, Jones – Valencia, Rooney, Nani – Welbeck.