The Reds set aside the chase for the league title and the pursuit of European glory to go in search of a place in the semi finals of the FA Cup. But Harry Redknapp's Portsmouth stand in United's way…

Form guide: Since losing to United in the league in January, Portsmouth have been in fairly consistent form, winning three of their last five and earning a 1-1 draw against Chelsea. The Reds have lost just once in 13 games in 2008.

Ins and outs: Ryan Giggs has missed United’s last three games with a calf injury, while Gary Neville is still recovering from long-term injuries. Otherwise expect the usual squad rotation from Sir Alex. Portsmouth, meanwhile, have injury concerns over Noe Pamarot (knee) and David Nugent (hernia), while Jermain Defoe is cup-tied.

Star men: Croatian winger Niko Kranjcar makes Pompey tick. He doesn’t score many goals (he has just four this season), but he is very skilful and creative. For United, pick one from many. But Wayne Rooney, so tireless against Lyon, is due to come into goalscoring form.