Boss expects tough test
February 20th, 2008 by emoitySir Alex Ferguson is reading nothing
into Lyon’s shock defeat against Le Mans last weekend, insisting that
he expects a thorough examination from the Ligue 1 champions when they
host United on Wednesday night.
Alain Perrin rested a
host of his top players in readiness for United’s visit, and Sir Alex
is well aware that his side are up against tough opposition in a side
that has won their domestic league for the last six seasons.
“I’ve
seen some parts of it (Lyon’s 1-0 defeat at Le Mans), just what we need
for the team,” he told his pre-match press conference. “Obviously it
was a disappointment for Lyon, but I saw the game last Saturday against
Sochaux, and we know it’s a big match for both teams.
“It’ll
be a difficult game, but I think it’s a good atmosphere and the pitch
is good, so I think it will be a really good match.”
United go
into Wednesday’s second round, first leg tie on the back of a thumping
FA Cup win over Arsenal, but that match is dead and buried according to
Sir Alex, whose sights are firmly set on posting a positive result in
France.
“We haven’t discussed the Arsenal match with the players
because we have a big match tomorrow,” he said. “It’s normal. We don’t
look back, we look forward. Today’s the day, tomorrow’s the big day.”
