O'Neill relishing United cup test

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has admitted he had a "wee inkling" that his side would once again be drawn against Manchester United in the FA Cup third round draw.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side will travel to Villa for their fourth meeting in the past seven seasons at that stage of the prestigious competition.

"It's incredible that we should get Manchester United again," he said. "Getting a home draw is great but I just had this wee inkling that it was going to be United once more. Don't ask me why."

He added: "It's unbelievable - and a great test for us. They obviously beat us 4-1 at Villa Park in the league less than a couple of months ago. They showed us what a fine side they are.

"This cup tie will be another epic with a full house. I will say this, though, we are better equipped now to take on Manchester United than we were in the third round last season."

Holders Chelsea were handed a home tie against QPR while 2006 winners Liverpool will travel to Luton or Nottingham Forest.

There are three other all-Barclays Premier League meetings with Tottenham hosting Reading, Wigan travelling to fellow strugglers Sunderland and Manchester City facing West Ham.

City boss Sven Goran-Eriksson admits his side will face a stern test when they travel to Upton Park on the weekend of January 5 and 6.

He said: "It could have been easier. It is a difficult tie as they are a good team. In this case you are selfish. You are looking for an easy draw.

"We have beaten them once this season (2-0 on the opening day of the season) so we will try to do so again as we want to progress in the FA Cup."