Old hostilities have been superseded by grudging respect, but even if there has been no pre-match gnashing of teeth, Manchester United versus Arsenal is a Champions League semi-final to get your incisors into.
Five and a bit years ago, Old Trafford was the scene of Martin Keown’s aggressive taunting of Ruud van Nistelrooy. On Wednesday, it will be the stage of a more exalted exchange – the first ever meeting in European competition of two of English football’s most famous clubs.
An unusually cautious Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken before the game of the importance of his side not conceding an away goal, with the Scot admitting that he would be 'delighted' with a 1-0 win to take into next week's second leg.
As has so often been the case this season, Ferguson’s most vexing concern is at right back. With Gary Neville absent, Ferguson will opt for either the experience of John O’Shea or the raw talent of Rafael da Silva.
Recently-crowned PFA Player of the Year Ryan Giggs, meanwhile, will make his 800th club appearance should he take to the field on Wednesday.
Arsene Wenger, whose selection is already compromised by the absence of Robin van Persie, has a headache at left full back.
Gael Clichy is sidelined and both Keiran Gibbs and Mikael Silvestre are doubts with ankle and back injuries respectively.
Better news for the visitors is that Johan Djourou has been passed fit and will start in central defence alongside Kolo Toure.
Ferguson’s side have never been knocked out of European competition in five ties against English opposition, while Arsenal have faced compatriots four times and not once have they been victorious.
History suggests United will prevail, but Wenger and Ferguson, who now cut dignified and deferential figures after years of embattled belligerence, are proof that history is not necessarily a shackle.
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