Owen and Pogba set to get the nod as Ferguson mixes it up

The 31-year-old, who was in the Liverpool side that drew 2-2 with Leeds in February 2004, has not featured for the Premier League leaders this term but is set to be one of a host of changes made by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Also in line for a starting berth are Dimitar Berbatov, Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick as the Red Devils look to avenge last year’s shock FA Cup exit.

Ferguson revealed last night how he also plans to give French youngster Paul Pogba his first senior start for the club.

Pogba, who performed so well against Sheffield United in the FA Youth Cup Final, picked up a slight knock in a recent reserve outing but the Old Trafford boss confirmed he is in line for his debut at what promises to be a lively Elland Road.

“He’s got a slight injury,” said Ferguson. “It’s not too bad, though. So he wasn’t available for Sunday but he should be able to play on Tuesday and I intend to play him against Leeds United.”

He also revealed why there is no prospect of Pogba being loaned out this season, despite recent reports of interest from Burnley.

The teenager could, however, be farmed out next year.

“It’s more difficult to loan a boy of 18 who’s come from France,” explained the Red Devils manager. “We prefer to keep him with us until we find he’s mature enough to possibly go on loan.

“Maybe next year that could be an option but we’re definitely expecting him this season to stay with Manchester United.”

Even allowing for the wholesale changes that are expected tonight, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side are overwhelming favourites to progress to the fourth round – especially considering the explosive way they have started the season.

Five wins from as many league outings plus a ‘goals for’ column that reads ‘21’ shows just how dominant the Old Trafford side have been.

Recent history is also very much against Simon Grayson and his Leeds team with Elland Road proving to be something of a happy hunting ground for Manchester United.

The Red Devils have won five out of their last 10 visits to Leeds who in turn have only won twice in this fixture at Elland Road in the last 15 years.