Manager Sir Alex Ferguson will ring the changes for this fourth round match with a Premier League fixture in mind on Saturday when they entertain Blackburn, while regular bench-warmer Brown will take on a big brother leadership role amongst what will be an inexperienced side.

Ferguson will hand a debut to Obertan, three months after the 20-year-old midfielder arrived from Bordeaux.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits this season could be make-or-break for several of his home-grown youngsters.

Fraizer Campbell, Lee Martin, Jonny Evans and Darron Gibson, who were all out on loan last season, plus Chris Eagles all featured in yesterday's friendly victory over Orlando Pirates in South Africa.