Saturday's match will be the 122nd between United and Sunderland. Historically, the Reds have the upper hand, especially in recent years. Since the Premier League's inception, the Black Cats have yet to register a win at Old Trafford.
Form guide: After a dramatic opening-day win over Tottenham, Roy Keane's men have managed just one further point. Their last two league games have yielded nothing at all. Meanwhile, United registered a first win of the season last weekend. Luck may have smiled on the Reds, but after three games of total domination and little to show for it, a little luck was certainly due...
Ins and outs: Sunderland will be without Dean Whitehead (knee) and Carlos Edwards (hamstring), while Kieran Richardson (back) is also a doubt. New signing Andrew Cole isn't match-fit yet but defender Paul McShane (head) should start, despite not featuring in the Black Cats' midweek Carling Cup tie. United fans may see Brazilian midfielder Anderson for the first time, while Louis Saha is tipped for a spot on the bench. Cristiano Ronaldo (suspended) and Wayne Rooney (foot) are still out, as is skipper Gary Neville (thigh).
Star men: Owen Hargreaves is already showing signs that he'll flourish in the Reds' midfield, while Sunderland goalkeeper and record signing Craig Gordon will need to continue his recent good form if the visitors are to cause an Old Trafford upset.