Manchester United manager, Alex Ferguson

EPL

League leaders Manchester United will be looking to restore their six-point gap at the top of the table after a last gasp Gareth Barry goal helped Manchester City to a 1-0 win over Reading and reduce the deficit to three points. Meanwhile Swansea hope to return to winning ways but have their work cut out.

The Swans have suffered back-to-back defeats to halt their charge up the standings, with Michael Laudrup’s side now perched in mid-table.

They are, however, still within sight of the top four and will be aware that a productive Christmas programme is likely to have them well-placed in the race for European qualification.

For now, though, negotiating a testing home tie against the league leaders will be dominating the thoughts of Laudrup and co.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have taken maximum points from their last five fixtures, with the Red Devils slipping ominously into top gear before the turn of the year.

United’s success so far has been built on their improved attacking firepower, with a division-high 43 goals plundered in 17 outings - with Everton and Norwich City the only sides to keep them out.