Manchester United have announced plans to do something they have never done before for the Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s side drew 2-2 in France last Thursday, with the match more notable for two high-profile errors from goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The Cameroon shot-stopper was rested for Sunday’s 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle, with reports claiming that Amorim told Onana to ‘rest and disconnect’ from football.
Altay Bayindir took his place at St James’ Park but didn’t put in a particularly convincing performance, with his poor clearance leading to Newcastle’s first goal.
That selection dilemma will likely dominate pre-match discussions, with the outcome of Thursday’s match deciding whether United’s season will effectively continue or be over, given their lowly Premier League position.
In that vein, the club have announced attempts to improve the matchday atmosphere at Old Trafford for the high-stakes fixture.
They have confirmed plans to unveil a pre-match ‘tifo’, of which an exact design has yet to be communicated.
Fans have been requested to get to their seats early if they want to see the reveal, which will be unveiled in front of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand.
The club worked with fan representatives on the idea and image, before sharing it with captain Bruno Fernandes to get his ‘seal of approval’.
Red and white pyrotechnics will also be in use before the match gets underway, having been previously trialled during the Europa League last 16 second leg against Real Sociedad.
Speaking after the defeat at Newcastle, Amorim stressed that full focus would quickly turn to Thursday evening’s clash.
“We have to start tomorrow [Monday, to recover for Thursday],” he told media. “We cannot change this game, this performance, this [Premier League] season.
“We just need to think of the future, we have one competition that we can win a trophy and go to the Champions League next season.
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