Rio Ferdinand is set to be dropped by David Moyes in the biggest game of Manchester United's season so far. United pit their wits against European champions Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena, and Ferdinand is to be replaced by Chris Smalling at the heart of the defence.
Rio Ferdinand has been dropped for Manchester United’s crucial Champions League clash with Bayern Munich in the Allianz Arena.
The veteran defender was a key figure alongside captain Nemanja Vidic when United drew 1-1 with the European champions in last week’s first leg at Old Trafford.
However, Ferdinand will not play in the return leg in Germany as David Moyes’s side look to claim a place in the last four.
Out: Rio Ferdinand is set to be dropped by David Moyes for Manchester United's clash with Bayern
Refreshments: Manchester United fans party ahead of the game with a few beers in the centre of Munich
Laid bare: United fans look to be enjoying themselves ahead of the crunch clash with Bayern
Flying the flag: United fans hold up a flag displaying the faces of Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson
On show: One Manchester United fan reveals his tattoo for all to see
Build up: Manchester United fans gather in the centre of Munich ahead of the Champions League match
For the cause: These fans will be hoping United can pull off another stunning result in Europe
Good to talk: United fans ensured the party started early as they gathered in Munich at lunchtime
Phil Jones partners
Vidic in central defence, and Moyes has sprung a surprise by playing
Darren Fletcher alongside Michael Carrick in midfield.
Fletcher
has only made 14 appearances for United this season after nearly a year
out with ulcerative colitis, and played a full 90 minutes at Newcastle
on Saturday.
Afterwards the Scotland international admitted that he was hoping to persuade Moyes to play him against Bayern.
Drink up: United fans were seen enjoying tankards of beer ahead of the match with Bayern Munich
Big session: United fans took advantage of the fine weather in Munich to toast their team
Keeping a close eye: Police watch over Manchester United fans in Wiener Platz before the game
Beer we go: United fans hang out in Munich as they look ahead to their side's clash with Bayern
‘Players
went out there trying to prove a point and trying to impress the
manager, which is what we have got to do,’ said Fletcher. ‘When there is
competition for places, every time you get the opportunity to play you
have got to try and put in a performance so the manager remembers it.
‘I feel great. I’m slowly but surely getting my fitness and form back. In the last month I’ve felt really good and with my performances I feel like I have done well.’
Ahead of the match, Manchester United fans relaxed in the Munich sunshine.
Supporters were seen enjoying tankards of beer as they congregated on the Wiener Platz while police patrolled the area.
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