Ferguson expects Old Trafford classic

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has warned his side to be wary of the counter-attacking threat of Real Madrid at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening.

Two of the giants of European football meet in the second leg of a last-16 Champions League tie, with the first leg in the Bernabeu having ended in a 1-1 draw.

That leaves Real, 4/6 to reach the quarter-finals, needing to score to progress and with United 4/1 to keep a clean sheet, Ferguson has warned of the threat of the quick counter by the Spaniards.

He told reporters: "As we know Real Madrid are one of the best counter-attacking teams in Europe. We have to find a way of coping with that, but also have our own threat in an attacking sense.

"I think that both teams are in form. They've found form at the right time for a game of this nature, but we've been consistent for quite a while.

"As a European night I don't think you get better than this one. It's set up to be a marvellous game and I don't think it will be a disappointment."

Ferguson also confirmed that England international Phil Jones, who man-marked Cristiano Ronaldo in the first leg, will be missing at Old Trafford due to an ankle injury.

The Red Devils are 5/4 to secure a place in the last eight at the expense of Real, with United 7/1 to go on and win the competition for the fourth time in their history.

Man Utd welcome Real Madrid to Old Trafford on Tuesday 5th March with their UEFA Champions League last 16 tie in the balance - and we've got a fantastic free bet offer to add to the excitement.