The glorious Manchester United had not been involved in the second European football competition since September 1995. By then, Eric Cantona was still serving his 9-month ban following his infamous Selhurst Park incident, and the Red Devils were knocked out of the UEFA Cup by an unknown Russian side called Rotor Volvograd on away goals rule.
United had forged a hard-fought 0-0 draw in Russian soil, but drew 2-2 at home a fortnight afterwards. As a matter of interest, Peter Schmeichel scored a late goal which meant nothing more than a consolation for Ferguson’s troops. Despite such a sickening blow, Manchester United ended up lifting two trophies at the end of the season, the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Last Thursday United found themselves involved in the recently revamped Europa League. Despite facing a team boasting an unquestionable pedigree, that is to say Ajax Amsterdam, it was by no means an easy task to focus on a game United should have never played. However, both players and staff exhibited an uncompromising approach to get the job done in a proper manner.
That match won’t go down in the annals if history, but United sent a strong message to their opponents that they are taking the tournament seriously, as the Reds Devils put the Dutch outfit to the sword 2-0. The Europa League is the only major trophy the Reds have not landed yet, so this could be an excellent chance for the lads to atone for Champions League early exit.
Comments
Nice stats…
Unfortunately, the performance in the second match against Ajax at Old Trafford was not as encouraging as the first one. The team was complacent after scoring first and it could have been another disastrous European night.
Come on United!!! Let’s push on for the remainder of the season and shut up those noisy neighbours!!! I would love to see Pogba play a bigger part though, I think he has the energy and determination to drive the midfield. Come on Fergie don’t let him go, just give him a chance
I would also like to see more action from Paul Pogba, but I have a hunch that his future does not lie at Old Trafford. He is being ill-advised and his professional career is in danger.