We Don't Fear Milan - Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson insists a Champions League semi-final with AC
Milan need hold no fears for Manchester United.
The six-time European champions are the only remaining barrier to
an all-English final in Athens on May 23.
United met Milan two years ago, when they were beaten 1-0 in both
legs, with the Italians far more superior than the final outcome
suggested.
However, while Carlo Ancelloti's ageing team are not quite the
force they were, Ferguson's side have emerged as one of the most
feared on the continent.
Tuesday's seven-goal rout of Roma has established the Red Devils as
favourites to make the final.
And, after detecting some trepidation during those high-profile
meetings a couple of years ago, Ferguson does not believe United
need be worried now.
"I am sure it will be a fantastic game but one thing is for
certain, we are not going to be afraid of it," he said.
"There were one or two moments in the last game two years ago when
there was a little bit of nervousness and caution about us.
"There is no need for that. We are playing a great side with a lot
of experience. But we have a lot of attributes too."
Ferguson admires the longevity of evergreen defender Paolo Maldini
- "how old is he, 91?" - and accepts Ancelloti's coaching prowess
will ensure Milan will be formidable foes.
But, with Cristiano Ronaldo continuing to produce outstanding form,
and Wayne Rooney happily hitting the Champions League goal trail
again, he is confident in the abilities of his own team, although
he does accept there are key lessons to be learned from their last
visit to Milan.
"The last time we played them, we missed six or seven chances," he
said.
"We know that cannot happen again, so the experience of our last
games against them is going to be a big help."
Ferguson's is also confident the tie will pass off without
trouble.
Given it will have only been a month since United fans were
attacked inside and outside Rome's Stadio Olimpico, another visit
to Italy has been viewed in some quarters as something to be
avoided.
However, Ferguson played down the violence which erupted before
last week's return leg at Old Trafford and feels there should be no
problem.
"In terms of our experiences in Milan, the last time there were no
problems and hopefully it will be the same again," he said.
"I didn't think there would be any problem before our game on
Tuesday but there was a short spell of trouble.
"Unfortunately, it kept being repeated on TV so it made you think
there was bedlam for an hour, which gave a bad impression.
"Overall, the police dealt with the situation absolutely
brilliantly and hopefully the Milan police will have enough
consideration to deal with anything that comes along over
there."
