The Gunners are the 7/2 outsiders to triumph in Rome on May 27, with Chelsea 10/3 to atone for their disappointment in Moscow last year.
Firstly, there's the small matter of Arsenal's visit to Old Trafford, and it’s 5/6 that the Reds win at Old Trafford and take an advantage to the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday, with Arsenal priced at 10/3 and the draw at 5/2. Overall, United are 8/13 favourites to reach the final and Arsene Wenger’s side 6/5 to qualify from the tie.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, who both scored two goals against Tottenham on Saturday, are 4/1 joint favourites to score first. Dimitar Berbatov and Carlos Tevez are both 5/1.
The Reds remain on course to become the first club to defend the Champions League
Form Guide: The Gunners have lost just one of their last ten league and cup games - the FA Cup semi-final to Chelsea. They will have an eye on a crucial away goal on Wednesday and will be buoyed by the fact that they have scored in three of their five Champions League away matches this season.
Ins and Outs: Robin van Persie (groin), William Gallas (knee), Gael Clichy (back) and Tomas Rosicky are definitely out, although both van Persie and Clichy may be back for the game at The Emirates next Tuesday. Former Red Mikael Silvestre is also a doubt with a back spasm. United will still be without the injured Gary Neville who faces another ten days or so on the sidelines.
Card Count: There are a host of players from both teams who are just one booking away from missing the second leg. Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra are both on two yellow cards, as are Arsenal trio Abou Diaby, Alexandre Song and Samir Nasri.
Star Man: Cesc Fabregas. The man who makes Arsenal tick was used in a more advanced role behind Nicklas Bendtner in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough and it worked a treat with the Spaniard chipping in with both goals.
Referee: Claus Bo Larsen (Denmark). The Dane last took charge of the Reds in the 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in last season's group stages.
Ins and Outs: Robin van Persie (groin), William Gallas (knee), Gael Clichy (back) and Tomas Rosicky are definitely out, although both van Persie and Clichy may be back for the game at The Emirates next Tuesday. Former Red Mikael Silvestre is also a doubt with a back spasm. United will still be without the injured Gary Neville who faces another ten days or so on the sidelines.
Card Count: There are a host of players from both teams who are just one booking away from missing the second leg. Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra are both on two yellow cards, as are Arsenal trio Abou Diaby, Alexandre Song and Samir Nasri.
Star Man: Cesc Fabregas. The man who makes Arsenal tick was used in a more advanced role behind Nicklas Bendtner in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough and it worked a treat with the Spaniard chipping in with both goals.
Referee: Claus Bo Larsen (Denmark). The Dane last took charge of the Reds in the 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in last season's group stages.
Arsene Wenger may have been on the receiving end of Ryan Giggs
Instead, the Gunners manager has nothing but respect for United's newly-crowned PFA Player of the Year and his awesome longevity - Giggs could make his historic 800th appearance for the Reds, in Wednesday night's showdown with Wenger's side.
"I have a big respect for Ryan Giggs because he started his career in 1991 and we are now in 2009," said an impressed Arsene in his pre-match press conference at Old Trafford.
"When a guy has played 18 years at that level, you have to have complete respect. The focus and the sacrifices that it demands to be at the top level for 18 years are massive.
"Now he has been named Player of the Year and there has been a big debate (about that). OK, maybe this hasn't been the best year of his career but the only miracle is not that he got it this year, it's that he never got it before."
Giggs was 25 when he scored the stunning solo goal to knock Arsenal out of the FA Cup just over ten years ago; many of Wenger's current players are still younger than that and he is hoping they are now on the verge of something special. He accepts the "Arsenal are still developing, still maturing, maybe next year" mantra is past its sell-by date now.
"This is the moment when we want to show we have what is needed," he said.
"We have built a young team because we wanted to develop a special way of playing and a special spirit.
"Our players have been educated together from the age of 16 to 23, 24 and we think there is something special (about them) which we hope will come out at this level of the competition. This is the moment we've waited for."
If Wenger's youngsters can upset the form book and defeat United over two legs, they will be a step closer to compensating for the pain of a European Cup final defeat to Barcelona in 2006.
"The 2006 campaign was special because the only game we lost in the Champions League that year was the final and we were 1-0 up until 13 minutes. The only regret we have for that day is that we played with only ten men," reflected Wenger.
"It's part of a career, to swallow a disappointment and then use that as the spark to come back even stronger. That's what we're trying to do."
Wenger is famously two-nil down to Sir Alex Ferguson in terms of triumphs in this competition. But the Arsenal manager continues to believe that he will one day emulate his rival's successes in Barcelona and Moscow.
"I am an optimist. I believe I will win it and the sooner, the better. That is why I am here with complete belief.
"But in fairness as well, I am at the stage of my career when I am more focused on doing it for my club, for my players and for the fans than I am for myself. I've had the luck to stay at the same club for 12 years.
"I know how much it means to the club and the players, and I am focusing all the energy I have to the team."
"I have a big respect for Ryan Giggs because he started his career in 1991 and we are now in 2009," said an impressed Arsene in his pre-match press conference at Old Trafford.
"When a guy has played 18 years at that level, you have to have complete respect. The focus and the sacrifices that it demands to be at the top level for 18 years are massive.
"Now he has been named Player of the Year and there has been a big debate (about that). OK, maybe this hasn't been the best year of his career but the only miracle is not that he got it this year, it's that he never got it before."
Giggs was 25 when he scored the stunning solo goal to knock Arsenal out of the FA Cup just over ten years ago; many of Wenger's current players are still younger than that and he is hoping they are now on the verge of something special. He accepts the "Arsenal are still developing, still maturing, maybe next year" mantra is past its sell-by date now.
"This is the moment when we want to show we have what is needed," he said.
"We have built a young team because we wanted to develop a special way of playing and a special spirit.
"Our players have been educated together from the age of 16 to 23, 24 and we think there is something special (about them) which we hope will come out at this level of the competition. This is the moment we've waited for."
If Wenger's youngsters can upset the form book and defeat United over two legs, they will be a step closer to compensating for the pain of a European Cup final defeat to Barcelona in 2006.
"The 2006 campaign was special because the only game we lost in the Champions League that year was the final and we were 1-0 up until 13 minutes. The only regret we have for that day is that we played with only ten men," reflected Wenger.
"It's part of a career, to swallow a disappointment and then use that as the spark to come back even stronger. That's what we're trying to do."
Wenger is famously two-nil down to Sir Alex Ferguson in terms of triumphs in this competition. But the Arsenal manager continues to believe that he will one day emulate his rival's successes in Barcelona and Moscow.
"I am an optimist. I believe I will win it and the sooner, the better. That is why I am here with complete belief.
"But in fairness as well, I am at the stage of my career when I am more focused on doing it for my club, for my players and for the fans than I am for myself. I've had the luck to stay at the same club for 12 years.
"I know how much it means to the club and the players, and I am focusing all the energy I have to the team."
United's hopes of defending the Champions League trophy
Only Gary Neville joins long-term absentee Owen Hargreaves on the injury list, giving Sir Alex Ferguson a bulging squad as he looks to outwit Arsene Wenger. "Everyone's fit, apart from Gary," he told reporters on Tuesday. "It's a strong position to be in going into a Champions League semi-final."
That in itself poses problems as Sir Alex admits he's "wrestling" with ideas of how to approach the match. "I’ve got to pick the right team, and I have plenty of options. I’ll wrestle with those options in the next 24 hours.
"There are many decisions to be made: the performance in the second half against Tottenham, in particular, and the way that Carlos Tevez changed the game. That’s not lost on me."
The exhilarating way in which Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov ripped into Tottenham makes playing all four players, against an Arsenal defence that has creaked in recent weeks, is a huge temptation. But goals conceded at home can prove fatal in European ties, and the boss is keen to guard against it.
"It’s an untypical semi-final because it’s two English teams," he added. "But the principles are the same. You hope you win your home game and don’t lose a goal. That’s always the case. But it won’t be decided on Wednesday, I feel sure of that.
"There'll be a lot of football left to play at the Emirates. Looking at the tie itself and the players on view, it's a perfect semi-final, full of terrific footballers and both teams play good football. The games have an appetising look about them."
That in itself poses problems as Sir Alex admits he's "wrestling" with ideas of how to approach the match. "I’ve got to pick the right team, and I have plenty of options. I’ll wrestle with those options in the next 24 hours.
"There are many decisions to be made: the performance in the second half against Tottenham, in particular, and the way that Carlos Tevez changed the game. That’s not lost on me."
The exhilarating way in which Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov ripped into Tottenham makes playing all four players, against an Arsenal defence that has creaked in recent weeks, is a huge temptation. But goals conceded at home can prove fatal in European ties, and the boss is keen to guard against it.
"It’s an untypical semi-final because it’s two English teams," he added. "But the principles are the same. You hope you win your home game and don’t lose a goal. That’s always the case. But it won’t be decided on Wednesday, I feel sure of that.
"There'll be a lot of football left to play at the Emirates. Looking at the tie itself and the players on view, it's a perfect semi-final, full of terrific footballers and both teams play good football. The games have an appetising look about them."
Mikael's mission
Mikael Silvestre insists he cannot wait to gun down his former team-mates in the Champions League semi-final. Arsenal defender Silvestre is relishing the chance to play Manchester United tomorrow after a nine-year spell at Old Trafford. And he is backing the fresh-faced Gunners to win the tie. Silvestre, 31, said: "I’m looking forward to tackling all of the United team - they were all my mates. This game means a lot to me. We are on a good run and are confident of reaching the final." - The Sun
Other players quoted in today's papers include Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who describes his direct opponent in Wednesday's match, Nemanja Vidic, as "the toughest (defender) I have played against" (The Sun).
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand's desire to repeat last season's success in Europe makes the Mirror: "It was such a great feeling, I told the players, let's do it again." Also in the Mirror, ex-Liverpool defender and now BBC Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson is backing United to beat Arsenal over two legs and face Chelsea in the final ("Fergie just two good").
There's more reaction to Ryan Giggs' PFA award, ranging from the Daily Mail's "Giggs has started only 12 league matches... so how can he be footballer of the year?" to the Daily Star's "Make Giggsy a Sir." The latter reports MPs Hazel Blears and Chris Grayling are backing a campaign to give the Welshman a knighthood.
The Independent speculates about Nani's future at United, claiming it is in "in increasing doubt after he left Old Trafford before the end of Saturday's game, having been substituted at half time. The 22-year-old is understood to have been "very upset" after Sir Alex Ferguson did not send him out for the second half against Tottenham."
Other players quoted in today's papers include Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who describes his direct opponent in Wednesday's match, Nemanja Vidic, as "the toughest (defender) I have played against" (The Sun).
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand's desire to repeat last season's success in Europe makes the Mirror: "It was such a great feeling, I told the players, let's do it again." Also in the Mirror, ex-Liverpool defender and now BBC Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson is backing United to beat Arsenal over two legs and face Chelsea in the final ("Fergie just two good").
There's more reaction to Ryan Giggs' PFA award, ranging from the Daily Mail's "Giggs has started only 12 league matches... so how can he be footballer of the year?" to the Daily Star's "Make Giggsy a Sir." The latter reports MPs Hazel Blears and Chris Grayling are backing a campaign to give the Welshman a knighthood.
The Independent speculates about Nani's future at United, claiming it is in "in increasing doubt after he left Old Trafford before the end of Saturday's game, having been substituted at half time. The 22-year-old is understood to have been "very upset" after Sir Alex Ferguson did not send him out for the second half against Tottenham."
Serbian defender
Serbian defender Vidic believes the Gunners will provide a stern test in the first leg at Old Trafford, especially now the likes of striker Adebayor are approaching top gear.
"Arsenal have always been a good team with quality players. We know and respect that, and now they're on good form - they have started scoring goals (again),” said Vidic.
“Adebayor and van Persie are very difficult forwards to play against. They are great players, they have speed and an eye for a goal.
"We need to concentrate fully for 90 minutes if we are to stop them.”
Adebayor has scored four goals in his last six games for Arsenal, including one in each leg of the Champions League quarter-final victory over Villarreal.
The Togo international also netted in his last appearance at Old Trafford – but the fact Vidic missed that game, an eventual 2-1 win for United, will not have been lost on him.
“Vidic is a very good player, he knows how to play against strikers,” said Adebayor. "He's very strong and he's ready to give his life away for United.
"For me, he's one of the toughest defenders - he prevents a lot of goals. He scores important goals for his club too.”
"Arsenal have always been a good team with quality players. We know and respect that, and now they're on good form - they have started scoring goals (again),” said Vidic.
“Adebayor and van Persie are very difficult forwards to play against. They are great players, they have speed and an eye for a goal.
"We need to concentrate fully for 90 minutes if we are to stop them.”
Adebayor has scored four goals in his last six games for Arsenal, including one in each leg of the Champions League quarter-final victory over Villarreal.
The Togo international also netted in his last appearance at Old Trafford – but the fact Vidic missed that game, an eventual 2-1 win for United, will not have been lost on him.
“Vidic is a very good player, he knows how to play against strikers,” said Adebayor. "He's very strong and he's ready to give his life away for United.
"For me, he's one of the toughest defenders - he prevents a lot of goals. He scores important goals for his club too.”
Sir Alex has called for a repeat performance from fans
With in-form Arsenal in town for the Champions League semi-final first leg, the boss says United could benefit from a similar atmosphere.
“It was an amazing transformation when we scored that first goal [against Tottenham],” Sir Alex said. “We needed that support from the fans and they’re going to have to play their part again before the end of the season.
“They’re going to have to drive us. We’ve been through a hard, hard season and it’s coming up to that part of the season where we need everyone.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by left-back Patrice Evra, who also acknowledged the part United fans played against Tottenham at the weekend.
“The supporters were very important,” he said. “We came off at half-time 2-0 down and were clapped off the pitch by our fans. That was unbelievable.
“I hope the fans support us again throughout the match [against Arsenal]. We need to make it intimidating for Arsenal and put them under pressure. It’s very difficult for opposition teams to play at Old Trafford when the crowd gets behind us.”
“It was an amazing transformation when we scored that first goal [against Tottenham],” Sir Alex said. “We needed that support from the fans and they’re going to have to play their part again before the end of the season.
“They’re going to have to drive us. We’ve been through a hard, hard season and it’s coming up to that part of the season where we need everyone.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by left-back Patrice Evra, who also acknowledged the part United fans played against Tottenham at the weekend.
“The supporters were very important,” he said. “We came off at half-time 2-0 down and were clapped off the pitch by our fans. That was unbelievable.
“I hope the fans support us again throughout the match [against Arsenal]. We need to make it intimidating for Arsenal and put them under pressure. It’s very difficult for opposition teams to play at Old Trafford when the crowd gets behind us.”
confirm Malaysia date
Kuala Lumpur will be United's first stop on this summer's four-match pre-season tour of Asia.
At a press conference on Tuesday it was confirmed the world champions will play a Malaysia XI at the picturesque Bukit Jalill Stadium on 18 July, kick-off 10:30 BST.
It's eight years since the Reds last visited Malaysia, when 100,000 fans watched a Malaysian All-Stars team lose 6-0 to a strong United line-up. And official tour promoters ProEvents are expecting similarly fervent support this year.
“We are excited to work with the club again, and to bring to Asia one of the most exciting and biggest football clubs in the world," said San Boon Wah, managing director of ProEvents International.
“The club is popular throughout the world and especially so in Asia, where it has a wide fan base. I am sure many football fans, both local and from the region, are thrilled by this opportunity to see the champions in action."
At a press conference on Tuesday it was confirmed the world champions will play a Malaysia XI at the picturesque Bukit Jalill Stadium on 18 July, kick-off 10:30 BST.
It's eight years since the Reds last visited Malaysia, when 100,000 fans watched a Malaysian All-Stars team lose 6-0 to a strong United line-up. And official tour promoters ProEvents are expecting similarly fervent support this year.
“We are excited to work with the club again, and to bring to Asia one of the most exciting and biggest football clubs in the world," said San Boon Wah, managing director of ProEvents International.
“The club is popular throughout the world and especially so in Asia, where it has a wide fan base. I am sure many football fans, both local and from the region, are thrilled by this opportunity to see the champions in action."
Ryan Giggs reflects on being voted PFA Player of the Year
It's a special award because it's voted for by the people who see you first hand - the players you play against week in, week out.
I don't know about it being a long time coming. Some outstanding people have won it while I've been playing and, consistency-wise, I've probably improved over the last few years.
The ten days at the end of last season - coming on and scoring at Wigan and then winning the Champions League - were massive and definitely the highpoints of my year.
I wouldn't say the award means more to me at this stage of my career than it would have done earlier. But I think I will appreciate it more, because I'm probably not going to get it again... I'm running out of time!
At 35, you start to think you're never going to win awards like that. It was obviously a great surprise and I had a great night down in London. I hope I can celebrate it further with a win against Arsenal on Wednesday night.
Hopefully it won't be the last honour I pick up. Still going well in the league and the Champions League, we're all hoping for an exciting end to the season.
I don't know about it being a long time coming. Some outstanding people have won it while I've been playing and, consistency-wise, I've probably improved over the last few years.
The ten days at the end of last season - coming on and scoring at Wigan and then winning the Champions League - were massive and definitely the highpoints of my year.
I wouldn't say the award means more to me at this stage of my career than it would have done earlier. But I think I will appreciate it more, because I'm probably not going to get it again... I'm running out of time!
At 35, you start to think you're never going to win awards like that. It was obviously a great surprise and I had a great night down in London. I hope I can celebrate it further with a win against Arsenal on Wednesday night.
Hopefully it won't be the last honour I pick up. Still going well in the league and the Champions League, we're all hoping for an exciting end to the season.
Nani
The Portuguese winger has started just six league games this term and was taken off at half-time on Saturday with United 2-0 down against Tottenham Hotspur.
Certain sections of the media have since claimed the 22-year-old’s United days are numbered, with Internazionale apparently keen to secure his services.
However, speaking before the Reds’ crunch Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal on Wednesday, Sir Alex revealed the Portuguese winger won't be leaving.
“Nani’s been unlucky this season," the boss said. “The form of Ji-sung Park has been absolutely outstanding and most of the time he’s kept Nani out of the team. He also picked up a little injury…
“So it’s been difficult for Nani to get a consistent run and that’s really been his problem. But he’ll be here next season and he’ll do very well for us."
Certain sections of the media have since claimed the 22-year-old’s United days are numbered, with Internazionale apparently keen to secure his services.
However, speaking before the Reds’ crunch Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal on Wednesday, Sir Alex revealed the Portuguese winger won't be leaving.
“Nani’s been unlucky this season," the boss said. “The form of Ji-sung Park has been absolutely outstanding and most of the time he’s kept Nani out of the team. He also picked up a little injury…
“So it’s been difficult for Nani to get a consistent run and that’s really been his problem. But he’ll be here next season and he’ll do very well for us."
Match Pack
Form Guide: The Gunners have lost just one of their last ten league and cup games - the FA Cup semi-final to Chelsea. They will have an eye on a crucial away goal on Wednesday and will be buoyed by the fact that they have scored in three of their five Champions League away matches this season.
Ins and Outs: Robin van Persie (groin), William Gallas (knee), Gael Clichy (back) and Tomas Rosicky are definitely out, although both van Persie and Clichy may be back for the game at The Emirates next Tuesday. Former Red Mikael Silvestre is also a doubt with a back spasm. United will still be without the injured Gary Neville who faces another ten days or so on the sidelines.
Card Count: There are a host of players from both teams who are just one booking away from missing the second leg. Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra are both on two yellow cards, as are Arsenal trio Abou Diaby, Alexandre Song and Samir Nasri.
Star Man: Cesc Fabregas. The man who makes Arsenal tick was used in a more advanced role behind Nicklas Bendtner in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough and it worked a treat with the Spaniard chipping in with both goals.
Referee: Claus Bo Larsen (Denmark). The Dane last took charge of the Reds in the 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in last season's group stages.
Ins and Outs: Robin van Persie (groin), William Gallas (knee), Gael Clichy (back) and Tomas Rosicky are definitely out, although both van Persie and Clichy may be back for the game at The Emirates next Tuesday. Former Red Mikael Silvestre is also a doubt with a back spasm. United will still be without the injured Gary Neville who faces another ten days or so on the sidelines.
Card Count: There are a host of players from both teams who are just one booking away from missing the second leg. Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra are both on two yellow cards, as are Arsenal trio Abou Diaby, Alexandre Song and Samir Nasri.
Star Man: Cesc Fabregas. The man who makes Arsenal tick was used in a more advanced role behind Nicklas Bendtner in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough and it worked a treat with the Spaniard chipping in with both goals.
Referee: Claus Bo Larsen (Denmark). The Dane last took charge of the Reds in the 2-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in last season's group stages.
Comment on the
Does anybody else miss the slanging matches between Sir Alex and Arsene Wenger? The longest-serving managers in the league have served up some of the best verbal sparring in living memory, but it's all gone friendly recently. Check out this quote from the Arsenal manager this week: "[Earning Sir Alex's respect] is one of the privileges of getting older! Our respect will survive the two games." We'll see... (Steve Bartram)
Mutual respect
Serbian defender Vidic believes the Gunners will provide a stern test in the first leg at Old Trafford, especially now the likes of striker Adebayor are approaching top gear.
"Arsenal have always been a good team with quality players. We know and respect that, and now they're on good form - they have started scoring goals (again),” said Vidic.
“Adebayor and van Persie are very difficult forwards to play against. They are great players, they have speed and an eye for a goal.
"We need to concentrate fully for 90 minutes if we are to stop them.”
Adebayor has scored four goals in his last six games for Arsenal, including one in each leg of the Champions League quarter-final victory over Villarreal.
The Togo international also netted in his last appearance at Old Trafford – but the fact Vidic missed that game, an eventual 2-1 win for United, will not have been lost on him.
“Vidic is a very good player, he knows how to play against strikers,” said Adebayor. "He's very strong and he's ready to give his life away for United.
"For me, he's one of the toughest defenders - he prevents a lot of goals. He scores important goals for his club too.”
"Arsenal have always been a good team with quality players. We know and respect that, and now they're on good form - they have started scoring goals (again),” said Vidic.
“Adebayor and van Persie are very difficult forwards to play against. They are great players, they have speed and an eye for a goal.
"We need to concentrate fully for 90 minutes if we are to stop them.”
Adebayor has scored four goals in his last six games for Arsenal, including one in each leg of the Champions League quarter-final victory over Villarreal.
The Togo international also netted in his last appearance at Old Trafford – but the fact Vidic missed that game, an eventual 2-1 win for United, will not have been lost on him.
“Vidic is a very good player, he knows how to play against strikers,” said Adebayor. "He's very strong and he's ready to give his life away for United.
"For me, he's one of the toughest defenders - he prevents a lot of goals. He scores important goals for his club too.”
Sir Alex
With in-form Arsenal in town for the Champions League semi-final first leg, the boss says United could benefit from a similar atmosphere.
“It was an amazing transformation when we scored that first goal [against Tottenham],” Sir Alex said. “We needed that support from the fans and they’re going to have to play their part again before the end of the season.
“They’re going to have to drive us. We’ve been through a hard, hard season and it’s coming up to that part of the season where we need everyone.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by left-back Patrice Evra, who also acknowledged the part United fans played against Tottenham at the weekend.
“The supporters were very important,” he said. “We came off at half-time 2-0 down and were clapped off the pitch by our fans. That was unbelievable.
“I hope the fans support us again throughout the match [against Arsenal]. We need to make it intimidating for Arsenal and put them under pressure. It’s very difficult for opposition teams to play at Old Trafford when the crowd gets behind us.”
Don't forget the Show Your Colours campaign is also running this evening. Fans attending the match have been urged to arrive early and bring shirts, scarves and flags.
“It was an amazing transformation when we scored that first goal [against Tottenham],” Sir Alex said. “We needed that support from the fans and they’re going to have to play their part again before the end of the season.
“They’re going to have to drive us. We’ve been through a hard, hard season and it’s coming up to that part of the season where we need everyone.”
It’s a sentiment echoed by left-back Patrice Evra, who also acknowledged the part United fans played against Tottenham at the weekend.
“The supporters were very important,” he said. “We came off at half-time 2-0 down and were clapped off the pitch by our fans. That was unbelievable.
“I hope the fans support us again throughout the match [against Arsenal]. We need to make it intimidating for Arsenal and put them under pressure. It’s very difficult for opposition teams to play at Old Trafford when the crowd gets behind us.”
Don't forget the Show Your Colours campaign is also running this evening. Fans attending the match have been urged to arrive early and bring shirts, scarves and flags.
Gunners test
Cristiano Ronaldo
"It's a great game. Arsenal is a fantastic team and they play fantastic football. We know each other, we've played against each other a few times in the Premier League. It's going to be tough but we have to believe we are contenders for the Champions League. Everything is possible."
Nemanja Vidic
"Arsenal are in good form, they have started scoring goals, they have always been a good team, they have quality players, we know that and we have respect but we’re going to play our game and try to have a good result."
John O'Shea
"It’s a classic semi-final and something to look forward to. Two great footballing teams who want to play the right way. They’re going to be billed as a clash of the titans of England."
Ryan Giggs
"Obviously there’s a lot of history between the two clubs over the last 15 to 20 years, the two most successful clubs and two really good sides. It’s going to be interesting."
"It's a great game. Arsenal is a fantastic team and they play fantastic football. We know each other, we've played against each other a few times in the Premier League. It's going to be tough but we have to believe we are contenders for the Champions League. Everything is possible."
Nemanja Vidic
"Arsenal are in good form, they have started scoring goals, they have always been a good team, they have quality players, we know that and we have respect but we’re going to play our game and try to have a good result."
John O'Shea
"It’s a classic semi-final and something to look forward to. Two great footballing teams who want to play the right way. They’re going to be billed as a clash of the titans of England."
Ryan Giggs
"Obviously there’s a lot of history between the two clubs over the last 15 to 20 years, the two most successful clubs and two really good sides. It’s going to be interesting."
Ex-Red
Mikael's mission
Mikael Silvestre insists he cannot wait to gun down his former team-mates in the Champions League semi-final. Arsenal defender Silvestre is relishing the chance to play Manchester United tomorrow after a nine-year spell at Old Trafford. And he is backing the fresh-faced Gunners to win the tie. Silvestre, 31, said: "I’m looking forward to tackling all of the United team - they were all my mates. This game means a lot to me. We are on a good run and are confident of reaching the final." - The Sun
Other players quoted in today's papers include Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who describes his direct opponent in Wednesday's match, Nemanja Vidic, as "the toughest (defender) I have played against" (The Sun).
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand's desire to repeat last season's success in Europe makes the Mirror: "It was such a great feeling, I told the players, let's do it again." Also in the Mirror, ex-Liverpool defender and now BBC Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson is backing United to beat Arsenal over two legs and face Chelsea in the final ("Fergie just two good").
There's more reaction to Ryan Giggs' PFA award, ranging from the Daily Mail's "Giggs has started only 12 league matches... so how can he be footballer of the year?" to the Daily Star's "Make Giggsy a Sir." The latter reports MPs Hazel Blears and Chris Grayling are backing a campaign to give the Welshman a knighthood.
The Independent speculates about Nani's future at United, claiming it is in "in increasing doubt after he left Old Trafford before the end of Saturday's game, having been substituted at half time. The 22-year-old is understood to have been "very upset" after Sir Alex Ferguson did not send him out for the second half against Tottenham."
Mikael Silvestre insists he cannot wait to gun down his former team-mates in the Champions League semi-final. Arsenal defender Silvestre is relishing the chance to play Manchester United tomorrow after a nine-year spell at Old Trafford. And he is backing the fresh-faced Gunners to win the tie. Silvestre, 31, said: "I’m looking forward to tackling all of the United team - they were all my mates. This game means a lot to me. We are on a good run and are confident of reaching the final." - The Sun
Other players quoted in today's papers include Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor, who describes his direct opponent in Wednesday's match, Nemanja Vidic, as "the toughest (defender) I have played against" (The Sun).
Meanwhile, Rio Ferdinand's desire to repeat last season's success in Europe makes the Mirror: "It was such a great feeling, I told the players, let's do it again." Also in the Mirror, ex-Liverpool defender and now BBC Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson is backing United to beat Arsenal over two legs and face Chelsea in the final ("Fergie just two good").
There's more reaction to Ryan Giggs' PFA award, ranging from the Daily Mail's "Giggs has started only 12 league matches... so how can he be footballer of the year?" to the Daily Star's "Make Giggsy a Sir." The latter reports MPs Hazel Blears and Chris Grayling are backing a campaign to give the Welshman a knighthood.
The Independent speculates about Nani's future at United, claiming it is in "in increasing doubt after he left Old Trafford before the end of Saturday's game, having been substituted at half time. The 22-year-old is understood to have been "very upset" after Sir Alex Ferguson did not send him out for the second half against Tottenham."
Old Trafford
United roared back from two goals down to win 5-2, and Cristiano Ronaldo admitted afterwards: "The fans helped us win the game. When we are together like that, the players and the supporters, you always know the result will come."
Supporters can reprise Saturday's baying din on Wednesday evening, when the reigning European champions look to reach a second successive Champions League final at the expense of Arsenal.
As ahead of last year's unforgettable win over Barcelona at the same stage, Old Trafford will be transformed into a sea of colour pre-match, and fans are urged to arrive early to help build the anticipation around the stadium.
Fans group Stretford End Flags will have nine representatives pitch-side waving flags before the game, and are providing giant banners to be passed around the crowd.
Two mosaics will be in place for supporters to hold as the teams take to the field, while fans are also urged to bring scarves, flags and, naturally, singing voices as the champions of Europe look to take a huge step towards this year's final in Rome.
Supporters can reprise Saturday's baying din on Wednesday evening, when the reigning European champions look to reach a second successive Champions League final at the expense of Arsenal.
As ahead of last year's unforgettable win over Barcelona at the same stage, Old Trafford will be transformed into a sea of colour pre-match, and fans are urged to arrive early to help build the anticipation around the stadium.
Fans group Stretford End Flags will have nine representatives pitch-side waving flags before the game, and are providing giant banners to be passed around the crowd.
Two mosaics will be in place for supporters to hold as the teams take to the field, while fans are also urged to bring scarves, flags and, naturally, singing voices as the champions of Europe look to take a huge step towards this year's final in Rome.
Giggsy
Giggs made his Reds debut in the old First Division (that's how long he's been around) back in 1991 against Everton.
The Welshman's latest conquest - the prestigious PFA Players' Player of the Year - shouldn't be the only title bestowed upon him, according to United supporters.
The website, sirryangiggs.com, is attempting to canvass a list of names to be sent to the Queen.
It's not the only online army calling for Giggs to be knighted, with several other sites also running petitions.
Giggs did collect an OBE from the Queen for services to football back in December 2007, but fans think Ryan deserves an even higher honour, with which he would join the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton.
The Welshman's latest conquest - the prestigious PFA Players' Player of the Year - shouldn't be the only title bestowed upon him, according to United supporters.
The website, sirryangiggs.com, is attempting to canvass a list of names to be sent to the Queen.
It's not the only online army calling for Giggs to be knighted, with several other sites also running petitions.
Giggs did collect an OBE from the Queen for services to football back in December 2007, but fans think Ryan deserves an even higher honour, with which he would join the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton.
Kuala Lumpur will be United's
At a press conference on Tuesday it was confirmed the world champions will play a Malaysia XI at the picturesque Bukit Jalill Stadium on 18 July, kick-off 10:30 BST.
It's eight years since the Reds last visited Malaysia, when 100,000 fans watched a Malaysian All-Stars team lose 6-0 to a strong United line-up. And official tour promoters ProEvents are expecting similarly fervent support this year.
“We are excited to work with the club again, and to bring to Asia one of the most exciting and biggest football clubs in the world," said San Boon Wah, managing director of ProEvents International.
“The club is popular throughout the world and especially so in Asia, where it has a wide fan base. I am sure many football fans, both local and from the region, are thrilled by this opportunity to see the champions in action."
Chief executive David Gill added: “Our relationship with fans in Malaysia is already well established, with local young people having the chance to learn to play the game the Manchester United way with MU Soccer Schools.”
United confirmed the China leg of the tour on Monday and details of the other two games, in Korea and Indonesia, will be revealed on ManUtd.com on Wednesday and Thursday.
It's eight years since the Reds last visited Malaysia, when 100,000 fans watched a Malaysian All-Stars team lose 6-0 to a strong United line-up. And official tour promoters ProEvents are expecting similarly fervent support this year.
“We are excited to work with the club again, and to bring to Asia one of the most exciting and biggest football clubs in the world," said San Boon Wah, managing director of ProEvents International.
“The club is popular throughout the world and especially so in Asia, where it has a wide fan base. I am sure many football fans, both local and from the region, are thrilled by this opportunity to see the champions in action."
Chief executive David Gill added: “Our relationship with fans in Malaysia is already well established, with local young people having the chance to learn to play the game the Manchester United way with MU Soccer Schools.”
United confirmed the China leg of the tour on Monday and details of the other two games, in Korea and Indonesia, will be revealed on ManUtd.com on Wednesday and Thursday.
Rafael
The Rio de Janeiro-born full-back has caught the eye with 24 first-team appearances, and ever since his Barclays Premier League debut against Newcastle in August, he's never looked out of his depth.
Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted with the rapid progress the 18-year-old former Fluminense starlet has made.
“Everyone at the club has been very impressed and excited by his first year as a professional," the United boss told ManUtd.com.
"His enthusiasm and the adventurous way he plays is typical of a Manchester United player, and we are delighted that he has signed a new contract.”
Rafael hopes that his new deal heralds a long association with the Reds.
“It's been a fantastic first season and I have been learning from all the players at the club, especially from the defence," he told us.
"It has been an exciting time for me and I want to be part of this club for a long time, so to get an extension to my contract is unbelievable."
Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted with the rapid progress the 18-year-old former Fluminense starlet has made.
“Everyone at the club has been very impressed and excited by his first year as a professional," the United boss told ManUtd.com.
"His enthusiasm and the adventurous way he plays is typical of a Manchester United player, and we are delighted that he has signed a new contract.”
Rafael hopes that his new deal heralds a long association with the Reds.
“It's been a fantastic first season and I have been learning from all the players at the club, especially from the defence," he told us.
"It has been an exciting time for me and I want to be part of this club for a long time, so to get an extension to my contract is unbelievable."
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