Giggs is ready for tough Euro draw

RYAN Giggs admits United face a tough task just to get into the group stages of the Champions League.

The Reds will find out today who they face in the qualifying round, with several banana skins awaiting Louis van Gaal’s side.

Italian side Lazio along with CSKA Moscow, Club Brugge, Monaco and Rapid Vienna are all potential opponents.

And although Champions League winner Giggs knows there is no guarantee the Reds will secure a place in the group stages, he is just happy to be back in the competition after missing out last season.

“There are no mugs in it at this stage,” Giggs said.

“It will be difficult for us to qualify, especially with the play-off being early on in the season, but we are ready.

“We are used to being in the Champions League.

“It wasn’t nice last year watching our rivals play in it.”

Giggs is beginning his second season as Van Gaal’s assistant and – despite winning every club honour possible in his playing career – he has revealed he is learning plenty from the Reds boss.

“I have learned loads from him,” Giggs said.

“Just seeing him first hand has been a massive learning experience for me.

“The manager has given me that platform to go and coach every day. And I am enjoying it thoroughly.

“He didn’t know me before I met him, but we instantly hit it off.

“And he has given me massive responsibility from the start.

“I have worked hard in coaching just as a I did as a player. He recognises that.”