MATTHEW LE TISSIER could switch roles in an effort to test Manchester United's double ambitions tonight. The out of sorts Channel Islander may attack United through the centre as Southampton boss Dave Merrington searches desperately for an answer to his dramatic form slump.
Last season mercurial Mall could do no wrong. Spectacular free kicks, long range lobs, close range toe pokes - they all went in.
Le Tissier ended up with 24 goals and belated international recognition - yet the clamour for England coach Terry Venables to pick him has subsided with an extraordinary performance dip that has brought just seven goals this season.
"Everyone asks me what has happened," said Le Tissier. "I just don't know the answer. I wish I did. It is difficult to perform at your peak all the time but I haven't been at my best for a while. All I can do is keep plugging away and hope it all comes right - starting at Old Trafford."
Dell boss Dave Merrington is considering the tactical switch to get Le Tissier more involved. "I have never tied Mall down to any one role and maybe it is time to bring him inside," he said. "He is a key man for us and we need him firing on all cylinders."
Both clubs could finish with doubles, Southampton relegated as FA Cup Winners and Manchester United claiming FA Cup and Premiership twin honours again.
But United's confidence is overshadowed by a realisation of what Le Tissier might do if he suddenly clicks into top gear at English football's greatest club theatre.
"Le Tissier is the mainstay of their team. If he shines Southampton will have a chance," conceded United striker Andy Cole.
United have every reason to be wary. Old Trafford memories still recall the sunny day 20 years ago when United went to Wembley as hot favourites - and Bobby Stokes won the Cup for Southampton.
"That's what Cup football is all about," said Tommy Docherty, United manager for their ill fated visit. "We went to Wembley odds on favourites and Southampton pipped us."
United spirits are soaring after their Premiership win at Newcastle but they will also recall that Southampton were the last team to dump them from the FA Cup at Old Trafford in a penalty shoot out four years ago.
Tommy Widdrington or Neil Maddison stand by to replace suspended Southampton captain Barry Venison but Mark Walters has recovered from a thigh injury and defender Jason Dodd is available after suspension. Simon Charlton, faces a late test, for calf trouble.
United are likely to be unchanged with Gary Neville partnering Steve Bruce at the heart of their defence as England's Gary Pallister is ruled out a further two weeks by back trouble.
Bruce is something of an FA Cup talisman for United. His only taste of FA Cup defeat in 16 United ties came in last season's final against Everton.
