Man U's clash against Arsenal their biggest ever game: Ferguson

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists that Tuesday night's clash with Arsene Wenger will be their biggest ever game after 13 years of dual between the two managers.

This will be the 39th time the two managers have met in all competitions with the record level at 14 wins each and 10 draws.

There have been some fierce, controversial and dramatic encounters down the years in league and cup. But a place in the Champions League final beckons tonight - and that means more to both than anything else.

"There is no question the clashes we have had in the past with Arsenal will not reach the proportion of this," The Sun quoted Ferguson, as saying.

United lead the semi-final tie 1-0 after the first leg at Old Trafford and they are aiming to become the first club to successfully defend the trophy.

"It is strange that no one has defended the trophy. It is a challenge. We are in a good place going into the game. We have a lead and we are only one kick away from Rome. It is a big incentive for us," he added.

"I think we will need to score and we have that goal threat about us which is a big bonus. We have the ability to score and if we did it would put us in a very strong position. But I am expecting a very close game. You cannot call it.

"They are two terrific sides and it should be quite an engrossing game. I don't think anybody is going to be disappointed with this match," Ferguson said.

This will be Ferguson's sixth semi-final having been successful in only two.