Alex Ferguson labels Manchester United's match against Norwich 'mundane'
United play Norwich this weekend before taking on Real Madrid in the Champions League
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Manchester United could be excused for having one eye on next Tuesday when they will host Real Madrid in a glamour Champions League tie.
Yet before Cristiano Ronaldo and his famous team-mates arrive in Manchester from Madrid in a game that Jose Mourinho described as "the one the world is waiting for", United must welcome the likes of Grant Holt and Anthony Pilkington of Norwich to the Theatre of Dreams.
Speaking today ahead of Saturday's match, Ferguson recognised the significance of the Norwich game, with a victory pushing United 15 points clear of Manchester City who do not play until Monday.
However, Ferguson may have risked offending Chris Hughton and his team, referring to the Premier League fixture as "mundane".
"Tomorrow is an important one because Tuesday will look after itself," he said. "It's an occasion on Tuesday whereas tomorrow is the mundane practical situation in that we need to win."
United will be boosted by the return of top scorer Robin van Persie who has recovered from a hip injury sustained in the 2-0 win over QPR.
"Robin van Persie has trained this week - he's available for tomorrow. His hip was very tender but he's OK now," manager Alex Ferguson told the news conference.
Defender Phil Jones will not be available for Saturday's league game because of an ankle injury but could return for Tuesday's last 16 second leg at home to Real Madrid.
Wayne Rooney is also expected to play a leading role in tomorrow's game as Ferguson looks to get the striker back to full fitness for Real Madrid.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments