With nightmares of their Anfield mauling still fresh in the memory, Manchester United return to Europa League action with the visit of Real Betis to Old Trafford for the first leg of their last-16 tie on Thursday night. The Red Devils progressed past Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate in the knockout round playoffs, while Manuel Pellegrini's crop beat Roma, HJK Helsinki and Ludogorets to top spot in Group C.
While it will be hard to live down the 7-0 loss to Liverpool, Erik ten Hag’s side cannot risk dwelling on it as they fight across a number of different fronts. The only way United can possibly put such a damaging defeat behind them is by ploughing ahead both in Europe as well as the FA Cup. Having beaten Barcelona to get to this stage in the first place, United are under pressure to progress even further. Betis, of course, boast quality but there is little doubt as to who is the favourite here.
There had been suggestions that Casemiro could miss out against the La Liga outfit due to an injury that he suffered during the second half of Sunday's 7-0 loss at Liverpool in the Premier League. However, speaking to MUTV on Wednesday, Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag appeared to confirm that the experienced midfielder would be available for the European affair. "We have a strong programme. But I think we are quite good. The only disappointment is Marcel Sabitzer is not available, as well as Anthony Martial," said the Dutchman. "Anthony Martial is back on the pitch, so we will see. For the rest, everyone is available and we are ready for the game."
SOURCE: MUTV
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