Joe Cole’s return to Upton Park is just one of the reasons why this should be one of the most interesting matches of the FA Cup 3rd round, with West Ham very motivated to start a new good run of results by defeating in-form Manchester United.

Despite the fact they were relegated to the Championship in 2011, West Ham remain one of the biggest clubs in England, as witnessed by their ability to attract players like Andy Carroll, Momo Diame and Joe Cole.

The return of one of the most popular players in club’s history is likely to be a huge boost for the Hammers, especially as the former England international still has several good years ahead of him.

With Sam Allardyce’s side starting the New Year with a home win over Norwich, they have every reason to feel optimistic ahead of the clash with mighty Manchester United.

This may be a long shot, but bear in mind the Hammers are 4.50 (7/2) with BetVictor to qualify for the next round.

New signing Joe Cole should slot straight into the starting line-up and he is 6.50 (11/2) with 888sport to mark his return with a goal.

James Collins and Kevin Nolan return from suspension, but Momo Diame, Andy Carroll and George McCartney remain sidelined.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Jaaskelainen – Demel, Collins, Reid, O’Brien – Noble, Taylor – J. Cole, Nolan, Jarvis – C. Cole.

Manchester United have been thoroughly impressive this season, although they have already been eliminated for the Capitol One Cup.

This basically means that the Red Devils will be very motivated to do well in the other domestic Cup competition, and the 4-0 victory over Wigan should keep them in good stead ahead of the clash at Upton Park.

With Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez establishing a fruitful partnership up front, Wayne Rooney is not so sorely missed, although nobody was happy to hear the forward will spend another two weeks on the sidelines.

Even if Sir Alex Ferguson is set to make wholesale changes to the side that triumphed at DW Stadium, Manchester United are 1.75 (3/4) favourites with bet365 to defeat West Ham.

Shinji Kagawa, Nemanja Vidic, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all expected to play some part as they lack some match fitness, while Darren Fletcher and Paul Scholes are also set to feature.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Lindegaard – Jones, Smalling, Vidic, Buttner – Scholes, Fletcher – Valencia, Kagawa, Welbeck – Chicharito.