Reaction: Southampton 1-2 Man Utd

1. Man Utd score with only two shots on target
2. Van Persie prods home Rooney free-kick
3. FA Cup third round: Arsenal v Hull
4. AFC Wimbledon v Liverpool; Dover v Palace
5. Stoke v Wrexham; West Brom v Gateshead

Time to hit the sack. Manchester United are up to third after a fifth straight Premier League win, Southampton cannot stop losing. Non-league Dover have a dream FA Cup third round home draw against Premier League Crystal Palace, while Arsenal and Hull City will battle it out in a repeat of last season's final. Thanks for all your tweets and texts. We're back on Tuesday with a big night of Champions League action when the focus will very much be on Liverpool. Until then...

Conor McNamara

Twitter

BBC Radio 5 live commentator in Turkey for Tuesday's Champions League game between Galatasaray and Arsenal: Dinner in Istanbul. You lost me at intestines...

It's time to park the Premier League, a big 48 hours is coming up in the Champions League. Liverpool and Manchester City require positive results, while Chelsea and Arsenal are also in action.

Manager reaction

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says he cannot yet say his side have momentum in the Premier League because of a below-par performance. United have five league wins in a row and sit third in the Premier League.

Asked about momentum, Van Gaal tells Sky Sports: "The performance was not good enough so I cannot say it. We were the lucky team this evening. You have to improve the performance, train to work hard and that's it."

Spanish football writer Andy West on Twitter

"Seems to me this Manchester United team being third in the table doesn't reflect very well on the quality of the Premier League. And I'm afraid to say, this Southampton team being fifth does much the same."

Manager reaction

The decision to substitute central defender Paddy McNair inside 40 minutes was "tough" but the right one, according to Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal.

"He had no confidence, he had given three chances away," he tells Sky Sports. "It's very disappointing for me and for Paddy, but I had to because as a manager I am responsible.

"It's tough but it's also in his best interests. I have made a lot of changes and all the boys can survive. It is only one match, one moment in a lifetime."

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Ed, London: Had this game been Manchester City v Chelsea, Jose Mourinho would be hailed as a tactical genius with the perfect set-up away from home. However, United get branded as lucky.

Bill, Poynton, Cheshire: Grinding results with horrendous injuries, so have to be pleased. Carrick back and he had to make the difference.

Fletch, Notts: Robin van Persie pure graft. Everything he did was perfect.

Manager reaction

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, speaking to Sky Sports: "We lost the ball too easily in the first half. The only chances Southampton created were when we lost the ball. That was not good in spite of our good result because we got a present also from Southampton.

"In the second half we were better. But I think Southampton played better than Manchester United yet we were the lucky guys."

What next?

The last time Manchester United won five Premier League games in a row Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge. It was a 2-1 win over Southampton that triggered a seven-match winning sequence on their way to the title in 2013.

And what next for United? Only the small matter of Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday. That matinee performance to the pantomime you have planned... cancel it now!

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar on Twitter: That's some win for Manchester United after a poor game. Robin van Persie was important with his goals.

Manager reaction

Reuters

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman, speaking to Sky Sports: "We played attacking football and tried to press them. We deserved more but on this level the difference is detail in the game and how you handle it when opponents make mistakes.

"But we had more chances, played better and had more possession. I said to the lads we didn't lose against United, we lost against ourselves."

Top 10 smash hit

BBC

Who are the others? Alan Shearer (260), Andrew Cole (187), Wayne Rooney (178), Thierry Henry (175), Frank Lampard (174), Robbie Fowler (162), Michael Owen (150), Les Ferdinand (149) and Teddy Sheringham (147).

Player reaction

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans replaced the injured Chris Smalling after 18 minutes and admits he struggled early on in his first appearance since 21 September.

"The first 10 minutes were a bit of a blow but you expect that in the Premier League especially in an away game," says Evans. "It was a fast game and they pressed from the front which made it a bit scrappy."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Christian Gittings: With United, it's not really how you win anymore, it's a results business, we are winning, but we need some new defenders/defensive midfielder.

Asif Maruf: Another lucky United win. Deserved nothing, still got the three points. It was the Arsenal game all over again.

The Ginger Man: If Man Utd get top four, will anyone be more deserving of Player of the Year than David De Gea?

Richard: United are eight points off the lead despite being shocking most of the season. Imagine if they get it together in 2015?

Player reaction

Manchester United match winner Robin van Persie: "The first goal is a bit of a gamble, nine out of 10 times it doesn't come off and you still have to score. I was a bit lucky there, it went through his legs but you earn your luck in those situations.

"I felt good, I've felt good over the last couple of weeks fitness wise. Tonight I could keep it up until the last minutes. That is what you want and then the goals, assists and wins will come. We are happy we are on our way up now so we have to keep the momentum going."

PA

Up next

So, no points for Southampton from a run of three games against both Manchester clubs and Arsenal. Next up is 19th-placed Burnley at Turf Moor.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

BBC Sport

"An expert lesson in clinical finishing from Robin van Persie. United up to third. Southampton end their mini-run against Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United with zero points."

What does this mean?

Manchester United might not be firing on all cylinders but they're now up to third in the Premier League table, eight points behind leaders Chelsea.

And Southampton? They are fifth, three points clear of sixth-placed Arsenal and one behind fourth-placed West Ham.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"It was a really enjoyable game. Have I seen Southampton play better? Yes. Did they dominate and deserve to win? Yes. Manchester United got out of jail with two individual pieces of brilliance from Robin van Persie.

"Are United going in the right direction? Performance wise, certainly not. I watched Manchester City here two weeks ago and there's no comparison between Manchester City and Manchester United."

Manchester United's travelling fans are chanting one name. And one name only. Robin van Persie acknowledges their cheers, removes his shirt, walks over to the away end and hands over his sweat-soaked top to a smiling female fan, who tucks it into her coat. What a souvenir! What a guy!

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Bob, Southampton: Shocked by the utter hatred for Man Utd. No other team receives such vitriol.

FULL-TIME

Five wins in a row for Manchester United, three defeats in a row for Southampton.

The referee could do with blowing his whistle now. Jose Fonte's elbow finds the face of Ander Herrera. Nothing given.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"That was a really bad challenge from Sadio Mane. It was dangerous. If he had caught Robin van Persie then the Manchester United player would've suffered a serious injury. That's the type of challenge you want stamped out."

YELLOW CARD

No goals for Wayne Rooney. But the United skipper does pick up a booking. The England striker says one word too many to the referee, whose had enough. Southampton don't look like equalising.

PA

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"This game shows the gulf between the top two (Chelsea and Manchester City) and the rest in the Premier League."

YELLOW CARD

A terrible challenge by Sadio Mane on Robin van Persie. Southampton's frustrations are bubbling to the surface. The referee immediately flashes a yellow card in the face of the Southampton forward.

SUBSTITUTION

Juan Mata has contributed little in this game and the Spaniard is replaced by Darren Fletcher.

PA

Southampton are running into a sea of blue shirts and running out of time. Two minutes of normal time remaining. It's now or never for the boys in the red and white stripes.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Rob Millward: Southampton are becoming the new Arsenal. Look great against poor teams but look like amateurs in big games.

The Lion: Man Utd should offer De Gea anything he wants to keep him away from Real Madrid in 2016.

Cam A: As poor as United have been, Southampton really should have taken their chances to punish Louis van Gaal's side.

Pressure from substitute Emmanuel Mayuka forces Jonny Evans to concede a corner. The flag kick is only half cleared and Nathaniel Clyne sends a low shot from outside the area narrowly wide.

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SUBSTITUTION

Shane Long, who should have scored, is replaced by Emmanuel Mayuka. Time running out for Saints. All the noise coming from the visiting fans.

TEN MINUTES TO GO

Time for a late twist from Southampton or will United hold on and claim a fifth straight top-flight win?

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Kinjal Saurabh: As good as Fraser Forster has been this season, he has been poor today. Both goals through his legs.

Faddi S: Unbelievable to think that this is the same Fraser Forster who almost stopped Arsenal scoring single-handedly.

Karl Cobane: And some people actually believe Fraser Forster is better than Joe Hart.

GREAT SAVE!

David De Gea flings his body across his line to keep out a rasping attempt from Graziano Pelle. There's life left in this game yet.

Seconds before United scored, 18-year-old midfielder Jake Hesketh came on for Southampton. The poor lad didn't have a chance to touch the ball before Robin van Persie pounced. He's not going to forget his debut in a hurry.

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Grant Heath: United are incredibly lucky to be in this game, let alone winning it, however will take this as a United fan.

That goal has changed everything. It's United who are now heading for third spot in the table. Southampton can't quite believe they are behind. They've had chance after chance.

Getty Images

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

BBC Sport

"Clinical Robin van Persie has silenced St Mary's. Big 20 minutes coming up for Southampton to show what they're made of."

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"What was all the fuss about? Robin van Persie has been the standout player for Manchester United, not just his goals but his attitude. Every time he has got it, he has looked a threat. If anyone was going to score, it should be him.

"It was a good free-kick from Wayne Rooney, but Southampton were left short defensively. Whether Manchester United deserve to be ahead, I'm not sure of that."

GOAL

Getty Images

Reuters

Reuters

Would you believe it? Two shots on target. Two goals. Manchester United lead as Robin van Persie scores with the outside of his left foot at the far post after Wayne Rooney floats a deep free-kick into the Saints penalty area. Sucker punch!

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"Southampton have dominated the game and had the majority of the chances but who has been a real standout player for them? No-one. It's just that they've been better than a poor Manchester United.

"In Victor Wanyama and Steven Davis, Southampton have two sitting midfielders, but in a game like this they only need one of them. The other one should get forward and put some pressure on United."

You can hear live commentary of Southampton v Manchester United by clicking on the listen icon at the top of this page.

Ashley Young has actually put in a decent shift for United. The same cannot be said of Wayne Rooney, Marouane Fellaini, Juan Mata, Michael Carrick or Marcos Rojo.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

BBC Sport

"Cracking game of football here at St Mary's. Southampton have no intention of settling for a draw and are pouring forward at every given opportunity.

"United look shaken, with Wayne Rooney summing up their evening by booting a corner straight out of play, which was followed by a combination of laugher and jeers from the home crowd."

Manchester United's evening is summed up by Wayne Rooney as he kicks a corner straight out of play and is then mocked by the home crowd.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"That's two wonderful chances for Southampton. Yet again Manchester United are giving the ball away. If Southampton showed a bit more to get after them and say 'let's try to win it', they would do because United keep losing the ball."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Matt Barron: United missing Di Maria and Shaw massively. Ashley Young is having a terrible time on the left.

Jon Goodway: Was Utd's Christmas party last night? Would explain this abysmal showing.

Christopher Wood: United can't string two passes together and looking shaky at the back. Will Southampton regret missing these chances?

If Southampton had more quality in the final third then the points would surely be in the bag by now. This time Marcos Rojo gives the ball away and Graziano Pelle is eyeing a second goal. This time the Italian can't keep his composure and fires over.

Marouane Fellaini is having a shocker. The Belgian gives the ball away again. He looks like a player who is badly lacking in confidence. He'll be lucky to complete this game.

How many times has David De Gea saved United this season? That was a fine stop by the Spaniard to deny Shane Long although the Saints striker will be disappointed with his finish.

GREAT SAVE!

Southampton continue to prod and probe United's defence and a glorious chance falls to Shane Long, who is left totally unmarked, forces a fine save from David De Gea after a teasing cross by Dusan Tadic. United should be behind.

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Mark, Berkshire: Saints are still struggling to click in the final third, if they do in the second half then I feel a win is a realistic possibility.

Simon, York: Total football? More like total nonsense. All I see is two sides who lack shape, discipline and most of all grit. Stoke v West Ham would be a better game than this.

Neil Roussel: So Louis van Gaal starts the season playing 5-3-2, realises it's not working, switches to a winning 4-4-2 formula and then inexplicably reverts to a wavering 5-3-2. Hallmark of a good manager?

Getty Images

What has Louis van Gaal said to his players at the interval? Whatever it is they don't appear to have taken much notice! Maya Yoshida twists and turns inside the visitors' penalty area but pauses when he should have shot. A big chance goes begging. Will Southampton be made to pay?

KICK-OFF

And action. Back under way at St Mary's.

As it stands, Southampton are heading back into the Premier League's top three. Manchester United will stay fifth unless they improve and find another goal.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

A Holton: Well done, Man Utd. Thought nothing could beat Arsenal's performance v Stoke for ineptitude. Worst display this season. Embarrassment.

Oye Opaneye: From what we've seen so far this season, Ronald Koeman seems to be a much better manager than Louis van Gaal.

Ahmet: Europol have been contacted as Juan Mata is missing. The bench, manager and other 10 players are concerned. Help.

Manager reaction

Yeovil Town manager Gary Johnson, whose side will face a home tie against Manchester United if they beat Accrington Stanley in a replay, says: "The replay will be a proper FA Cup tie because of the prize at stake for both teams.

"To play against Manchester United is huge and I feel sure we will be able to fill our stadium against Accrington in the replay."

Player reaction

Birmingham City midfielder Stephen Gleeson on Twitter: Blyth away, day before baby is due. That might be tricky.

Accrington Stanley goalkeeper Luke Simpson on Twitter: Man United next round of the FA Cup! Let's beat Yeovil first then. What a draw.

QPR midfielder Joey Barton, whose side face League One Sheffield United in the third round, says on Twitter: Home draw in the FA Cup is always good especially at fortress Loftus.

Missed the FA Cup third round draw earlier?

Holders Arsenal will entertain Hull in a repeat of last season's final, Conference side Dover have been drawn at home to Premier League Crystal Palace, while Accrington Stanley will entertain Manchester United providing the League Two side can see off Yeovil in a replay.

Read the whole draw here.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

Empics

"It's a very enjoyable game, but from a Manchester United perspective they have been very disappointing. With this system and these players, it has been a very unconvincing performance from them - they are all over the place.

"They look like they don't believe in what they're doing or the system. I don't know what Wayne Rooney is doing out on the left. He is more worried about Nathaniel Clyne than getting forward.

"This system does not suit the group of players. After the goal all they did was sit back and invite pressure."

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

BBC Sport

"Other than the goal, a totally shambolic half of football from Manchester United who don't seem to know how to play the formation they have set up as.

"Southampton started tentatively but urged on by manager Ronald Koeman they have grown in confidence and deserve to be level at the break."

HALF-TIME

No, they can't! The corner comes to nothing and there's time for one last chance as Robin van Persie finds the side netting with a terrific effort before the half-time whistle sounds. Ronald Koeman will be pleased with his team's efforts so far. You suspect Louis van Gaal has some stern words for his United players.

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A huge roar as Ashley Young is forced to concede a corner right on half-time. Can Southampton make it count?

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Jack Grummitt: I'm sorry but Marouane Fellaini looks like a 'rest of the world' actor playing in Soccer Aid half the time.

Tokunbo: Fellaini has had a poor game. He lost his first header after 10 seconds and hasn't recovered.

Ben Hibburd: ‏United would have more luck if the Chuckle brothers were in our defence.

Shohidur Rahman: Shambolic performance from United so far. We're lucky to be at 1-1, Louis van Gaal's tactics are baffling.

You've heard of players running into brick walls. Well, Southampton's players are literally running into one another. Shane Long and Graziano Pelle collide at full speed on the edge of United's penalty area. Fortunately, both emerge unscathed. This is a fully committed Saints performance.

SUBSTITUTION

PA

Tactical change for Manchester United as Ander Herrera comes on for young defender Paddy McNair. What will that do to the youngster's confidence?

United will do well to go in at the interval on level terms. This game has ebbed and flowed but it's Southampton who are approaching half-time on the front foot. United midfielder Ander Herrera is warming up. Are we about to see the Spaniard?

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

BBC Sport

"A frustrating opening 30 minutes ends with a goal for big Graziano Pelle and Southampton manager Ronald Koeman - who has not stopped patrolling his technical area - is urging his side forward.

"Manchester United for what it's worth have looked far from comfortable playing three at the back and Koeman has spotted that. Cracking atmosphere here at St Mary's."

PA

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"You could see it coming and Manchester United have been waiting to concede. They've done nothing since their goal.

"Southampton got a little bit of luck as the shot by Steven Davis took a deflection and then as Graziano Pelle shot on the turn it took another deflection into the roof of the net.

"No one is complaining about Pelle's goalscoring return, but in those games he doesn't score you want to see him do more."

GOAL

Empics

Getty Images

Getty Images

What a disaster for Marounae Felliani. What a disaster for Manchester United.

Fellaini carelessly concedes possession inside his own half, Steven Davis runs at the United defence. The visitors think they have cleared the danger but the ball bobbles to Graziano Pelle who ends his personal goal drought from 10 yards.

Careless by United.

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Some Twitter reaction to Manchester United defender Chris Smalling going off injured.

Kevin Macdonagh: Obviously something seriously wrong with Van Gaal's training regime with the constant injuries his players are suffering.

Jeremiah Kariuki: The injury worries for Man U seem never to end. Smalling being replaced by Jonny Evans who is just come back from injury.

Rian Hoskins: Surely top of Van Gaal's Christmas wish list is to have a run of matches were he has all defenders fit. It's injuries galore.

Chance for Southampton!

Manchester United's defence are on the back-foot as Dusan Tadic powers forward but he over-hits a pass for Shane Long and a great chance is gone. Moments later Graziano Pelle tests David De Gea with a fiercely struck effort.

Encouraging signs for the Saints.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"Manchester United have allowed Southampton to play in front of them. Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mane have gone off the boil a bit in their last three games and have not had the influence on the game that they would've liked."

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John Pierce: You have to say as bad as the backpass was, Forster's attempt to save RVP's effort was laughable.

Red Devil: Clumsy defending by the Saints but - as a Man Utd fan - I am very thankful and another goal for RVP.

Manchester United are playing like a team that is on a roll of wins. There is an air of confidence about Louis van Gaal's side and Southampton are having to bust a gut to win possession. This could be a long night for the hosts.

Empics

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"One bright point for Southampton is that three times the ball has gone up to Graziano Pelle and three times he has won it. You can simplify the game by getting it into him and feeding off him as he has dominated in the air so far."

That's five goals conceded without reply for Southampton in the last three league games. This would be an excellent time for Graziano Pelle to end his recent goal drought.

BBC Sport's Nabil Hassan at St Mary's

"Goal out of nothing for Manchester United with Robin van Persie latching onto Jose Fonte's poor backpass. It's Fonte's 200th appearance for Southampton and after a cagey opening it is the away fans who are buoyant on a bitterly cold evening at St Mary's. "

SUBSTITUTION

Empics

Manchester United barely have time to celebrate when they are forced into a change at the back Chris Smalling limps off after a challenge to be replaced by Jonny Evans, who has not played on the top-flight stage since the 5-3 defeat at Leicester on 23 September.

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"Robin van Persie was on the blindside of Jose Fonte, who passed it back without looking and that's the cardinal sin from any player.

"But it was a lovely finish from Van Persie. He waited for Forster to come out and stuck the ball through his legs with a perfectly weighted shot into the net."

Empics

GOAL

Getty Images

Getty Images

Someone tell Jose Fonte that Christmas is still two weeks away!

What a shocker by the Southampton defender as he gifts Robin van Persie a goal with a shocking back pass that the Manchester United forward latches onto in an instant.

Van Persie still has work to do but easily rounds Fraser Forster before firing home.

Ashley Young is already being given the run-around by Shane Long, the Saints forward controlling the ball with his chest before pinging the ball into the danger area. Bright start by the hosts.

Manager watch: Ronald Koeman is out of his dugout barking instructions at his players, urging them to get further forward. Louis van Gaal, meanwhile, is far more relaxed and glued to his seat.

Patient start by both teams. Already a decent battle developing between Marouane Fellaini and Victor Wanyama, the former conceding an early free-kick after chopping down the Southampton midfielder.

AFP

Steve Claridge

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's not a convincing system for Manchester United. Ashley Young as a wing-back? I'm not quite sure about that. For Manchester United to have to put square pegs in round holes is amazing.

"I watched them use the three centre-backs system at MK Dons and they were smashed out of sight. If I was Southampton I would say 'let's have a real go at them'."

You can listen to live coverage by hitting the play button at the top of this page.

Southampton might be having a testing time after two straight league defeats but the atmosphere at St Mary's is terrific. The blue shirted visitors have Ashley Young at wing-back. Not everyone appears to be convinced about that.

KICK-OFF

Ronald Koeman and Louis van Gaal shake hands. Roy Hodgson is here. All is good with the world. We're under way.

LINE-UPS

Southampton: Forster, Clyne, Fonte, Yoshida, Bertrand, Steven Davis, Wanyama, Mane, Tadic, Pelle, Long. Subs: Kelvin Davis, Gardos, Mayuka, Isgrove, Reed, Targett, Hesketh.

Man Utd: De Gea, McNair, Smalling, Rojo, Valencia, Fellaini, Carrick, Young, Mata, Rooney, Van Persie. Subs: Evans, Falcao, Januzaj, Lindegaard, Ander Herrera, Fletcher, Wilson.

Referee: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire)

The gloves are on

It's a chilly night at St Mary's. Definitely a night for a pair of gloves. Even some players are wearing them including Saints midfielder Dusan Tadic.

Koeman on Van Gaal

AP

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman on his relationship with Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal: "For me it is not a big issue," he tells BBC Radio Solent.

"I have already played against Louis van Gaal in Holland. Of course for the Dutch people the game on Monday brings more attention because it is Van Gaal against Koeman. But it's no issue because we are not on the pitch and we do not have an influence on the game. It is between Southampton and Manchester United."

Remember when?

BBC

Kiss and make up?

At the heart of the antagonism between Saints boss Ronald Koeman and Manchester United chief Louis van Gaal, according to reports, lies a simple clash of characters.

Van Gaal and Koeman had monumentally fallen out at Ajax in 2004, when the latter was technical director and the former was head coach. "I will never have dinner with Ronald Koeman again," a betrayed Van Gaal said.

Will they put their differences behind them and shake hands at St Mary's? Will they enter into the festive spirit and embrace? Or will they simply ignore one another and spend the entire match exchanging disapproving looks? Come on guys, it's nearly Christmas!

Five star Rooney

BBC

Friends not reunited

Other

Think managerial grudges and thoughts of Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola spring to mind. Jose Mourinho and Rafael Benitez. Jose Mourinho and...

Those of a certain age will remember the spat between Brian Clough and Don Revie. And then there's Gary Megson and Neil Warnock after the 'Battle of Bramall Lane' in 2002. "I've never ever witnessed anything as disgraceful as that," said then West Brom boss Megson after the match was abandoned as Warnock's Sheffield United had only six players left on the pitch.

But Louis van Gaal and Ronald Koeman? The pair have not not faced each other as managers for almost eight years, but tonight's meeting of Southampton and Manchester United sees the resumption of a feud that has consumed Dutch football for more than a decade.

Ding, ding, seconds out, round one...

More reaction from the FA Cup third round to come, but it's time to turn our attention to tonight's big Premier League game.

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Martyn Wrather: With the current Spurs side being the worst I have ever seen, our Cup run will no doubt come to an abrupt end at Burnley.

AlexSAFC: This is an omen, Sunderland have won the FA Cup two times, 37 and 73, we were ball 37, we beat Leeds in 73, we draw them now.

Getty Images

Jake Organ: Wimbledon v Liverpool, takes me back to a sunny afternoon in May 1988, Dave Beasant's save and Lawrie Sanchez's goal.

Player reaction

Dover Athletic midfielder Chris Kinnear Jr, whose side will play Premier League Crystal Palace at home: "It's a great draw. As a non-league team, we're looking for a Premier League team and it should be a great day.

"I'm absolutely chuffed. It's a dream draw. It will certainly be a sell-out, with at least 6,500 people there and I imagine it will be on television. It will bring everyone in the area together."

Player reaction

Blyth Spartans captain Stephen Turnbull on his side's home draw against Birmingham: "I don't think that Birmingham will want to come on our pitch. It is not the same standard as the Championship, that is for sure, and we will give it a good go."

Manager reaction

Southport manager Gary Brabin on his side's draw away to Derby: "It is a good game for us with a big crowd and it will be a big test for us. I watched them earlier this season and they are a good side, but if we can perform like we can we will give them a good game."

Cup-set, anyone?

Anyone fancy an upset?

Stoke v Wrexham, Dover v Crystal Palace, AFC Wimbledon v Liverpool, West Brom v Gateshead, Oxford or Tranmere v Swansea, Derby v Southport.

Player reaction

Blyth Spartans captain Stephen Turnbull on his side's home draw with Championship Birmingham: "It was a bit of an anti-climax! I wanted Manchester United to be honest. We will just have to give it our best shot."

Fan-tastic

Accrington Stanley v Manchester United? The poorest supported team in the Football League might just win some extra fans if they can see off Yeovil in a second round replay.

Manager reaction

The first two teams out were Arsenal v Hull, a repeat of the 2014 FA Cup final, which Arsenal won 3-2 in extra-time.

Hull City manager Steve Bruce on BBC Two: "It's quite remarkable. As soon as I walked in everyone was telling me we had drawn Arsenal in the rehearsal, so to do it again in the main draw is a shock. Let's hope it is as good as the final was."

Player reaction

Hull defender Curtis Davies on his side's draw against Arsenal: "I guess it was just meant to be, with it happening in rehearsal and the draw being in Hull. Alan Shearer will have to take the plaudits for this. We will have to go there and just give them a good game."

Highlights

They'll be dancing on the streets of Dover! Premier League Crystal Palace are coming to town. And what about Arsenal v Hull, a repeat of last season's final and one of several all-Premier League ties. Other include Burnley v Tottenham, Leicester v Newcastle and Everton v West Ham.

Ties are to be played between 3-6 January.

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Kurt Booth: A repeat of last year's final, Arsenal and Hull...nothing like a revenge match to knock us out in the first possible round.

Sam Oliver: Manchester City again? We've already been knocked out of the League Cup by them. Now the FA Cup too?

Doncaster v Bristol City

Preston v Norwich City

Accrington or Yeovil v Manchester United

QPR v Sheffield United

Barnsley or Chester v Middlesbrough

Chelsea v Watford

Cambridge or Mansfield v Bury or Luton

Everton v West Ham

Scunthorpe or Worcester v Chesterfield

Leicester City v Newcastle United

Fulham v Wolves

Brentford v Brighton & Hove Albion

Derby County v Southport

Millwall v Bradford City

Burnley v Tottenham Hotspur

Sunderland v Leeds United

Bolton Wanderers v Wigan Athletic

Cardiff City v Colchester United

Oxford or Tranmere v Swansea City

Huddersfield Town v Reading

Rotherham United v Bournemouth

Aston Villa v Blackpool

Blyth Spartans v Birmingham City

West Brom v Gateshead

Aldershot or Rochdale v Nottingham Forest

Manchester City v Sheffield Wednesday

AFC Wimbledon v Liverpool

Dover Athletic v Crystal Palace

Charlton v Blackburn Rovers

Stoke City v Wrexham

Southampton v Ipswich

Arsenal v Hull

Here we go...

It's draw time. Alan Shearer and local volunteer and coach Paul Adamson are the men in control of the fates of 71 clubs.

'The FA Cup is a fantastic competition'

Hull City manager Steve Bruce speaking on BBC Two: "I was watching Blyth Spartans beat Hartlepool on television on Friday and you could see what it meant to them. From small non-league clubs, to the big clubs, the FA Cup is a fantastic competition."

One win from another record

BBC

Alan Shearer

BBC Sport

After motivating Blyth Spartans by giving them a pre-match team talk before their win at Hartlepool, ex-England striker Alan Shearer will be involved in performing the FA Cup third round draw.

"I loved it, I went into the Blyth Spartans dressing room before hand, they just wanted to get out and play football. They rode their luck a bit in the second half but did well to get through."

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Ryan: AFC Bournemouth away to Millwall anyone? It's been a while since we drew them in a Cup. Would be two Saturdays on the bounce.

Alastair: As a Bradford City fan I would love Manchester United. We love been underdogs.

Joseph Turner: Would love to see AFC Wimbledon drawn against Man Utd at Old Trafford! Show that not only MK Dons can beat them. #mydreamdraw

Breaking news...

Drama before the draw...

Chesterfield's place could be in jeopardy after they were charged with fielding an ineligible player in their second-round win at MK Dons.

On-loan Wolves defender Georg Margreitter played despite the Spireites having no written permission from the Championship club.

BreakingBreaking team news

Southampton make two changes to the side that lost 1-0 at Arsenal. Maya Yoshida comes in for injured central defender Toby Alderweireld while Sadio Mane replaces Jack Cork in midfield. Dusan Tadic has also passed a late fitness test for Saints.

Southampton XI: Forster, Clyne, Fonte, Yoshida, Bertrand, Wanyama, S. Davis, Tadic, Mane, Long, Pelle.

Wayne Rooney returns to the Manchester United starting line-up after missing the win over Stoke with a knee injury. Paddy McNair comes in in defence with Ashley Young moving up into midfield and Ander Herrera on the bench.

Manchester United XI: De Gea, McNair, Smalling, Rojo, Valencia, Carrick, Fellaini, Young, Mata, Rooney, van Persie

There's also a huge match taking place tonight. Team news from Southampton v Manchester United coming up...

All set

We're five minutes away from the draw. Just enough time to pop the kettle on. Two sugars for me, please.

Stoke boss knows winning feeling

BBC

Relax and rewind

Missed the goals from the second round? Then you missed out on a heck of a lot of thrills, spills and the rest. But don't worry. You can catch up on the action via the highlights tab at the top of this page or check out our FA Cup video wall.

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Canaries hope to avoid recent nightmare

BBC

When will the draw be complete?

The FA Cup third round draw starts in a few minutes, but the full line-up of teams will not be known until 16 December.

There are currently 71 teams left in the hat, but only 64 will make round three.

In all, seven replays take place on 16 December.

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Arthur Pickthorn: As an Ipswich fan I would love Norwich or Chelsea at home or a non-league team away. Our cup form is terrible though.

Oludwadare Isaac: I would like a Derby County v Chelsea draw. It would be a draw between the top Championship and Premier League teams.

Empy Long: Brentford fan here hoping for a home tie v Aldershot (hoping they win their replay). I want a cup run this season.

Lights. Camera. Action.

BBC

BBC

BBC Two's coverage of the draw is starting right now - with BBC Radio 5 live coming up very soon - you can catch both of those via this page.

The draw, which starts in 12 minutes, will be held by Alan Shearer and East Yorkshire disability coach Paul Adamson.

Also at The Deep Aquarium are Hull manager Steve Bruce and defender Curtis Davies and several managers and players from non-league teams still in the hat.

Spurs know their way to Wembley

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Join the debate on the BBC Sport Facebook page

Mike Ruddock: Would just like Reading to get a team not in our division! We always seem to get another Championship team which is rather boring.

Ajoga Emmanuel: I hope Newcastle will take on Chelsea. What a game for Jose Mourinho.

Jake Pike: Bristol City v Liverpool at Anfield is my dream for the third round.

You know who Liverpool got in the dress rehearsal, Jake? That's right, Bristol City.

Tonight's menu

You can stay across all of tonight's football on the BBC.

There will be live coverage of the FA Cup third round draw on BBC Two from 19:00 GMT, while there will also be live commentary on BBC Radio 5 live.

Then there will be live commentary from St Mary's Stadium on BBC Radio 5 live, as Southampton entertain Manchester United in the battle for third spot in the Premier League, with that match kicking off at 20:00 GMT.

Worcester awaits

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Worcester City's Daniel Nti: "This is what dreams are made of. You could pull a world-class side. We're just so excited and waiting for the draw."

Conference North Worcester are ball 48.

Dress rehearsal

The dress rehearsal for the third round draw took place earlier and it threw up a few interesting ties. Not least a repeat of last season's final between holders Arsenal at Hull. The first team out of the hat? Manchester United swiftly followed by Chelsea! Will the real draw produce some memorable ties? Just over 20 minutes until it starts.

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Who do you fancy in the third round of the FA Cup?

Jordan Davies: Wolves need to beat anyone at the moment so has to be Blyth Spartans at home.

Jonathan Shutt: Already getting stick from Burnley fans that we have not beaten them in four years so Blackburn v Burnley at Ewood Park.

Ollie: As a Manchester United fan #mydreamdraw would be Leeds United at Old Trafford so we can put right what happened last time in the FA Cup.

Tweet us, using #mydreamdraw, leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page, or text us (UK only) on 81111.

Hammers, please!

Richard Osborne

Dover v West Ham? That's the dream of Whites boss and PE teacher Chris Kinnear after his Conference team's 1-0 win over League Two Cheltenham.

"I teach PE in the east end of London so West Ham would be perfect for me as my kids would fill the ground up," says 60-year-old Kinnear.

"When I left school I was an apprentice at West Ham when Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst were there so I'd love to get them."

Dover are ball 61.

Join the debate on the BBC Sport Facebook page

We asked who you want in the FA Cup third round draw and why? Here are some of your answers.

Owen Broadhurst: I'm a Scunthorpe United fan and provided we win our replay v Worcester then West Ham away as they are the only side of the current 92 clubs we have never played.

Matthew Vincent: Liverpool fan and would love Southport.

Mark Jacko Jackson: Newcastle away - somewhere like Dover.

Tweet us, using #mydreamdraw, leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page or text us (UK only) on 81111.

Derby County with golden hope

BBC

Derby are one point clear at the top of the Championship table. Would Rams boss Steve McClaren sacrifice an FA Cup run for promotion?

Friends up north

Twitter

Newcastle United congratulated north-east neighbours Gateshead on their progression to the FA Cup third round. Will that friendly rivalry change if ball numbers 28 and 55 are paired together later?

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

The draw for the third round of the FA Cup starts at about 19:12 GMT. Here are some of those teams you want to be facing.

Kevin Logan: I want Liverpool to draw a non-league team away just so that team can earn themselves a huge pay day.

Salford Owl: Really hoping that a Steel City derby comes out of the hat in the FA Cup third round.

Daniel Kelly: Would like to see Tranmere beat Oxford in the replay and get Chelsea, Arsenal or United. Would love Tranmere to cause an upset.

Gateshead look to turn back the clock

Gateshead chairman Graham Wood was an 11-year-old schoolboy when he last saw his beloved hometown team in the FA Cup third round 60 long years ago against Tottenham.

Back then, Gateshead were a Football League club, a status they held for 30 years, before being booted out in 1960. Now Wood wants the Conference club to land a money-spinning draw to help aid their push to win promotion back to the Football League.

"As a young lad I watched the Tottenham cup-tie from the dog track that surrounded the pitch at Redheugh Park, as the crowd was 19,000 strong," recalls Wood. "It was a great occasion and I never thought that it would be 60 years before we reached the third round again."

Gateshead are ball 55.

Southport boss dreaming of Toffees

Southportfc

Conference side Southport are in the third round for the first time since 1999. Then, they missed out on a jackpot draw as they were paired with Leyton Orient. Now, Sandgrounders boss and ex-Hull City midfielder Gary Brabin is hoping for something a little more glamorous.

"I've made no secret of the fact that I'm an Evertonian and I'd love to play Everton at Goodison Park," says the Liverpool-born ex-Luton Town boss.

Southport are ball number 54.

Five star Cup draw

Five non-league sides are guaranteed a chance of facing opposition from the Premier League in January - Blyth Spartans, Dover, Gateshead, Southport and Wrexham.

In addition, a further three teams face second-round replays - Aldershot Town, Chester and Worcester City.

A record eight non-league sides reached the third round in 2009 - Barrow, Blyth Spartans, Eastwood Town, Forest Green Rovers, Histon, Kettering Town, Kidderminster Harriers and Torquay United. Kettering and Torquay progressed to the next round.

Spart of the draw again

BBC

Blyth Spartans v Chelsea?

The draw is still 45 minutes or so away, but Blyth Spartans boss Tom Wade has already started planning for a home tie against Chelsea. Wade claims a psychic supporter has predicted all their results so far... and that the seventh-tier Northern Premier League Premier Division side will get Jose Mourinho's side in the third round.

"An old woman came up to me in the car park, and she told us the results would be 2-1, 4-3, 4-1, 2-1 and Chelsea," adds Wade, whose part-timers are the lowest ranked side left in the competition after seeing off Hartlepool in the second round.

"She's been right on four results before the games have even been played. She said 'you'll get Chelsea in the next round'. I wish she had given me six numbers between 1 and 49 as well!"

Blyth are number 52.

Big Ears p-p-picks up a penguin

Other

The FA Cup has travelled far and wide. Wigan chairman Dave Whelan took it to Barbados, where he has a home, to show it off to schoolchildren after his club won it in 2013. But the South Pole? As part of a Football Association initiative which calls on fans to celebrate the competition's excitement and drama, old Big Ears has been to the southernmost point on the surface of the earth. And it sparked curiosity among some of the locals.

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Former Liverpool and England striker Michael Owen: Great result for my local team Chester earning an FA Cup replay against Barnsley. Even more exciting to see who the potential opponents could be in the third round!

Who Are You?

Getty Images

Most managers celebrate a good result by taking their wife out for a meal or a quiet drink with friends. Not Steve Burr. The Chester manager jumped in his car and headed to Birmingham to watch The Who in concert after watching his side earn a second round replay against League One Barnsley.

"The Who are my favourite group," said Burr. "I got tickets for Sunday night, so when the draw was made and the BBC moved it to Sunday, I was a bit worried. I got a bit of earache from the wife over that."

Conference club Chester are ball number 58. Will Burr and his players be rocking up at Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge next month?

Join the debate at #mydreamdraw

Chelsea at home, Manchester United away, Blyth Spartans at home?

Who do you want your side to be paired with in the FA Cup third round draw. And why?

Get involved on Twitter, using the hashtag #mydreamdraw, leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page or text us (UK only) on 81111. We will post the best messages on this page.

Battle for third

In addition to the FA Cup third round draw, we bring you top notch Premier League action as Southampton and Manchester United do battle for third spot. What. A. Monday. Night. You're very welcome...

Where are we?

Other

The Premier League sharks are circling but will they bite off more than they can chew if they hook a minnow? Tonight's draw is coming from The Deep aquarium, home to lots of sharks, in Hull, the city where last season's runners-up are from.

Former England striker Alan Shearer, who was a losing FA Cup finalist with Newcastle in 1998 and 1999, will help conduct the draw. It all starts at 19:12 GMT and it's live on BBC Two and Radio 5 live - both via this page.

Who will hit the jackpot?

One Northern Premier League club. One from the Conference North. Six Conference clubs. Eight from League Two. Eleven League One clubs. Twenty four clubs from the Championship and a further 20 from the Premier League.

A total of 71 clubs are involved in the FA Cup third round draw, with the majority dreaming of landing one of the big four.

Will it be Blyth Spartans v Liverpool? Who fancies Manchester United v Dover? Worcester City or Scunthorpe United v Arsenal?

We can be heroes

It began back on 16 August when 368 teams entered at the extra preliminary round stage. Since then heroes have been born.

Other

Football League clubs have been embarrassed and at least one manager has paid the ultimate price.

The FA Cup has reached the magical third round draw stage, when non-league players dare to dream about sharing the same pitch as multi-million pound global superstars.

Getty Images

Can the players of Blyth Spartans, Dover, Gateshead, Southport and Wrexham start planning for a date with Diego Costa, Robin van Persie or Steven Gerrard?

The draw is coming up right here...

Ball numbers

1. AFC Bournemouth

2. Arsenal

3. Aston Villa

4. Birmingham City

5. Blackburn Rovers

6. Blackpool

7. Bolton Wanderers

8. Brentford

9. Brighton & Hove Albion

10. Burnley

11. Cardiff City

12. Charlton Athletic

13. Chelsea

14. Crystal Palace

15. Derby County

16. Everton

17. Fulham

18. Huddersfield Town

19. Hull City

20. Ipswich Town

21. Leeds United

22. Leicester City

23. Liverpool

24. Manchester City

25. Manchester United

26. Middlesbrough

27. Millwall

28. Newcastle United

29. Norwich City

30. Nottingham Forest

31. Queens Park Rangers

32. Reading

33. Rotherham United

34. Sheffield Wednesday

35. Southampton

36. Stoke City

37. Sunderland

38. Swansea City

39. Tottenham Hotspur

40. Watford

41. West Bromwich Albion

42. West Ham United

43. Wigan Athletic

44. Wolverhampton Wanderers

45. Oxford United or Tranmere Rovers

46. Bury or Luton Town

47. Wrexham

48. Scunthorpe United or Worcester City

49. Colchester United or Peterborough United

50. AFC Wimbledon

51. Accrington Stanley or Yeovil Town

52. Blyth Spartans

53. Chesterfield

54. Southport

55. Gateshead

56. Doncaster Rovers

57. Preston North End

58. Barnsley or Chester

59. Bradford City

60. Sheffield United

61. Dover Athletic

62. Cambridge United or Mansfield Town

63. Bristol City

64. Aldershot Town or Rochdale