Darren Fletcher is anticipating a fierce struggle against Bolton on Wednesday night as Wanderers fight for their top-flight existence.
Bolton beat Manchester United at the Reebok in November thanks to Nicolas Anelka's goal and Fletcher is expecting another physical battle as the Barclays Premier League leaders try to make their game in hand over Arsenal count.
Fletcher said: "There are going to be a lot more twists and turns in the title race as we all have to play each other.
"We have to focus on trying to win every league game but we know it is going to be difficult against Bolton. They are down there fighting to stay in the league while we are fighting to win it. It makes it a tough game.
"Bolton are a physical side and hard to break down. They pose a threat from set-pieces and thrown-ins. They will pose us problems and we have to counter that."
United are level on points with Arsenal, with superior goal difference.
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Wanderers will miss Anelka's goals now he is at Chelsea, but the fact they have been dragged back into the battle against relegation means United will face an even stiffer test.
"They are fighting for survival and any team fighting for survival has to fight. That's the name of the game," said the United manager.
"I thought they had got themselves clear of trouble but in this league if you lose a couple of games you are back in the mix.
"Everyone expects Derby to go down, Fulham are the next one and then it is a scramble. You've got a lot of teams down there.
"Obviously they are missing Nicolas Anelka's goals but they have Kevin Davies up front and he will do everything he possibly can to unsettle us.
"He's a physical lad and we have to deal with that but I think Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand have the height and ability to do that."
Ben Foster is on course to keep his place in the Manchester United goal as Edwin van der Sar's groin problem is likely to keep him out again.
Although Tomasz Kuszczak is available after serving a one-match ban, Foster's excellent performance on his debut against Derby should persuade Ferguson to keep faith with the 24-year-old.
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