The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Old Trafford fans asked to play part
Jose Mourinho has called on the Old Trafford faithful to raise the roof for a Europa League semi-final the manager claims is the “most important” match in Manchester United’s history.
After a long, arduous campaign, United are within touching distance of the May 24 finale in Stockholm.
Standing in the Red Devils’ way in the last four are Celta Vigo, who arrive at Old Trafford looking to overturn a 1-0 firstleg defeat to reach their first major European final.
It is a huge occasion for the Spanish club – as it is, Mourinho says, for the three-time European champions.
“I think in terms of motivation, we are even,” the United manager said.
“For Celta it is, in their words, the most important match of their history. And my feelings, it’s also the most important match of our history.
“It doesn’t matter what happened before, it doesn’t matter how many big matches we played before.
“What matters is the next one and the next one is (on Thursday), so I don’t believe Celta dreams more than us, that Celta wants more than us.
“I really don’t believe so in this aspect I don’t think there will be a difference between both teams.”
Mourinho wants that desire to be matched in the stands.
The atmosphere at Old Trafford has been lacking at times and the United boss wants to be spurred on by their fans tonight.
“I see a difference between matches,” Mourinho said.
“I don’t think it’s consistent, the atmosphere and enthusiasm.”
Wayne Rooney hopes to get the nod again tonight after yesterday insisting he wants to stay at United.
For so long a key player for club and country, this season the 31-year-old has found himself in the unusual position of scrapping for a starting role.