BIRMINGHAM, England: Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal must win Sunday's crucial Premier League showdown with Manchester United but the Gunners boss fears injuries to Thomas Vermaelen and Eduardo could wreck his side's hopes.

Wenger knows a victory over Sir Alex Ferguson's men at the Emirates Stadium is essential after Wednesday's 0-0 draw at Aston Villa left his third-placed team two points behind leaders Chelsea, who have a game in hand over their London rivals, and a point behind United.

The task of defeating the reigning champions has been made even harder after injuries to Belgian defender Vermaelen and Croatia forward Eduardo.