Four-time European Champion Cup winners Ajax welcome reigning Premier League champions Manchester United in what should be an enthralling encounter at Amsterdam ArenA.

The Dutch giants did well in their Champions League group and looked set to reach the knockout stages, that is until Lyon recorded a controversial 7-1 win in Zagreb to win the second place in the group.

Frank de Boer’s side ended the first part of the season with two easy victories in domestic league, but they have been largely struggling for form after the winter break.

The Amsterdammers first lost the Cup game to AZ Alkmaar, before taking just one point from next three league games, and the poor run also included a disappointing 4-2 defeat to fierce rivals Feyenoord.

Ajax finally managed to end the barren run as they beat NAC Breda at the weekend and the hosts are now hoping to record a good result against Manchester United as well.

Theo Jansen has resumed full training after recovering from injury and he is in contention for starting places, but Nicolai Boilesen is unlikely to be included having just returned from a five-month spell on the sidelines.

With Gregory van der Wiel, Derek Boerrigter and Andre Oijer also missing out, it is no wonder Ajax are 4.80 (19/5) with Betfair to win this game.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Vermeer – Koppers, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Anita – Eriksen, Enoh, De Jong – Sulejmani, Bulykin, Ebecilio.

The embarrassing exit from the Champions League certainly served as a big blow for everyone at the club, although it gave the team a chance to fight for the Europa League title.

Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to say that he planned to take the competition very seriously, but one should know by now not to trust the Scottish manager’s statements.

Premier League campaign clearly remains the priority, although seeing that United will not be in action next weekend, Fergie might just decide to field a strong team in Amsterdam.

The Red Devils are flying high after the amazing comeback against Chelsea was followed by all-important victory over Liverpool and they are 1.85 (17/20) with Paddy Power to triumph at Amsterdam ArenA.

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are rated doubtful, but Tom Cleverley looks set to start after recovering from injury.

Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney should get some well deserved rest, just like few other first team regulars, although nobody really knows Fergie’s plans for this clash.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-1-1): Amos – Fabio, Smalling, Evans, Evra – Park, Cleverley, Pogba, Young – Berbatov – Hernandez.