FC Midtjylland vs Manchester United preview: Louis van Gaal has reason to be unnerved by Danish champions

A look ahead to the Champions League fixture at the MCH Arena

Shona Duthie
Thursday 18 February 2016 15:36 GMT
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Louis van Gaal has backed Manchester United fans planning to protest against ticket prices
Louis van Gaal has backed Manchester United fans planning to protest against ticket prices (Getty Images)

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It’s a big game for…

Donald Love

With Matteo Darmian suffering a dislocated shoulder in Manchester United’s 2-1 loss to Sunderland last weekend, the youngster could be in with a shout of being United’s man to fill the void at right back. The 21-year-old came on against Sunderland and was praised significantly for his bright debut. He will have a point to prove to be in contention of becoming a regular in the starting 11.

Best stat…

W2 D1 L1: Mityland’s record in their last four games against English sides has been relatively impressive. They also beat Manchester City 1-0 in the 2008/09 UEFA Cup second qualifying tie only bowing out 4-2 on penalties.

Remember when…

Midtylland have already accounted for one Premier League club this season, eliminating Southampton 2-1 on aggregate in the play-offs. Their quick and resilient play was too much for Southampton as the Danish side prospered.

Player to watch…

Pione Sisto

The Danish international was rumoured to be targeted by Arsenal and Manchester City in the transfer window and was deemed one of ten young future stars in 2015. He was first capped at senior level at just 17-years-old in 2012 with Midtylland and United will have to watch his fast wing and skill approach. He could be a problem for United’s make shift defence as he tends to provide an outlet on the counter-attack.

Past three-meetings…

This is the first time the two clubs will meet one another in the UEFA competition.

Form guide…

FC Midtylland: WDLLDD

Manchester United: DWLWDL

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 6pm

TV: Live on BT Sport 2, Highlights on BT Sport app and BT Sport website

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