Skinner targeting an Emirates repeat

The Reds rallied from 2-1 down with just five minutes left on the clock to win 3-2 last term, stunning the majority of the 40,000 fans in the stands.

Ahead of this Saturday's match, Skinner hopes the Reds can draw from our recent run of results, as well as draw inspiration from our previous visit to the Gunners' ground.

“I think what's key is we have to go to a very difficult arena, and we have to put the very best of ourselves on the field,” said the manager, in our exclusive pre-match interview. “If we do that, then we can win the game.

“Last time we went to this stadium and played Arsenal we had a fantastic result. I think for everyone involved, everyone that was there, anyone watching on TV, it was a fond memory.

“We can't pretend that that's going to happen every time that you play in these big venues. We have to be ready and we have to perform at that standard and that level.”

However, Skinner appreciates that the two teams are very different from the sides that faced each other last time out. 

Alessia Russo scored our injury-time winner but tomorrow she is expected to start for our rivals.

“There are parts we can take from that [game], but also the game's different,” said Skinner.

“It's moved on. You can't look backwards. We've got to move forward so we can use the energy of that team. But we also need to make sure we're performing with today's standards and our quality that we can put onto Arsenal.”

United controlled much of the game against the Saints but Skinner says the Gunners will provide a different test for the Reds.

“I think it's just a different mindset, a different challenge.

“I have no doubt in this game that Arsenal [will] create chances. I have no doubt that we will create chances. But you've got to take the moments and you've got to be preparing yourself to be ready for those moments.

“We're going to have to defend resolutely, and we're going to have to be together, and we're going to have to find resilience.”

Our backline has suffered from injuries this season with Gabby George ruled out due to a long-term injury and Jayde Riviere being the latest to pick up a knock. But there is good news for United as Aoife Mannion made her return to the side last weekend against Southampton.

“I was singing the fan song about Aoife, even on the coach on the way home,” revealed Skinner.

“It's really important to welcome her back. It's been a long time. I know that Aoife has felt the frustration of that, but I think it's about now looking forwards. How can she force her way into the team? She's an absolute massively welcome addition to our backline.”

Fans in the UK and Ireland can watch Saturday's game against Arsenal live on Sky Sports (kick-off 12:30 GMT). Meanwhile, ManUtd.com will have live radio commentary, available worldwide.