In their way is last season’s FA Cup and Premier League winners Manchester City, arguably the best team left in the competition by some distance.
Steve Bruce’s men have picked up four points from six since the restart and head into the clash full of confidence – but could they face a wounded animal in City, who relinquished their hold on the Premier League trophy on Thursday after defeat to Chelsea.
Here we take a look at the starting XI Bruce is expected to select for the visit of Pep Guardiola & Co to St James’s Park tonight (kick-off 6.30pm).
9. RIGHT WING: Miguel Almiron
In what could be a fluid system, United could opt to put Almiron on to the right after a poor show against Villa through the middle. Well, if Matt Ritchie does not make it, that is. Photo: OWEN HUMPHREYS
10. NO 10 ROLE: Joelinton
The Brazilian could well drop a little deeper and float wide, switching with ASM & Almiron, working as a foil, rather than the focal point. Photo: LAURENCE GRIFFITHS
11. LEFT WING: Allan Saint-Maximin
United's best player since restart. An excellent dribbler who could be United's match-winner, as he was in the last round. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
12. STRIKER: Dwight Gayle
Steve Bruce faces a straight choice between Dwight Gayle and Andy Carroll for the forward role. And I think he might opt for Gayle. Photo: LEE SMITH