The kids are alright

Five years down the line we can expect an Arsenal-United encounter to be as fiery, and as packed with quality, as Sunday8217;s. And with as many skills on show. Because both teams have young players of the highest quality see box who, come 2009, will be in their prime.

In the past couple of days, both clubs have played their reserve teams in the Carling Cup, and both have acquitted themselves honorably, reinforcing the opinion that this rivalry will continue through GenNext.

So how would the two teams stack up? Judging by talent currently on show, Arsenal seem to have the upper hand. They have more players whose class is already proven, and have a younger talent pool to draw from. And, most importantly, they shade United in attacking terms.

Consider this: a midfield of Fabregas, Flamini and Pennant supplying passes to van Persie and Reyes. With Vieira, Henry, Ljungberg, Edu and Gilberto still around to provide the experience. Fabregas 8212; already pencilled in as the next Vieira 8212; has the steel and vision, Flamini and Pennant the flair. Up front, Reyes is the latest Highbury Hero, van Persie is being seen as the next Bergkamp.

The one time a line-up close to this was put to test, in the Community Shield last August, Arsenal were comfortable, convincing, often frightening winners over United.

That was, of course, Before Rooney. With him and Alan Smith, United have the better forward line. Rooney8217;s been written about enough but Smith could become the next Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for his ability to come on late and make a difference, whether in scoring, providing or, as he also showed on Sunday, defending.

Indeed, these two, and Ronaldo, have what even the fabled Fledglings 8212; Giggs, Beckham, Scholes, the Nevilles, Butt 8212; don8217;t: attitude. One key factor in United8217;s slide in the past couple of years has been the lack of on-field leadership, especially in Keane8217;s increasing periods of absence.

The problem is the supply line. Ronaldo on the wing is a certainty for stardom but currently has no creative partner. And the central midfield is in danger of being overrun by Fabregas and Flamini, though Phil Neville, who will be 32, should have the experience and retain the commitment.

Where United will be strong is in defence; a potential back four to choose from among O8217;Shea, Ferdinand, Brown, Silvestre and Heinze. Even Gary Neville should be around at 34. They are the current regulars and, if they remain at Old Trafford, United could have their version of Arsenal8217;s fabled defence of the 1990s.

Not that Arsenal8217;s current defence will be worse off; Ashley Cole is already among the best in his position and has the versatile Gael Clichy for cover, while Kolo Toure is getting better with every match.

If the Gunners have a better first XI, United will probably have the stronger bench. The improving Bellion will be joined by highly rated defenders Jon Spector and Gerard Pique and midfielder Chris Eagles.

There8217;s one department, though, where both are currently in uncertain territory: the manager8217;s seat. Ferguson will be 68 by then, Wenger who8217;s just signed up for another four years 60. For their replacements, though, as for the public at large, the Future is Fascinating.