Sir Alex Ferguson does not believe Barcelona's status as favourites ahead of this weekend's Champions League final offers them any advantage.
Manchester United find themselves in the rare position of being underdogs for Saturday's Wembley showpiece, even though they have just claimed a record 19th title. However, with memories of the one-sided encounter in Rome two years ago when the Catalans eased to victory, it is Barca who are expected to win.
"There is no advantage," declared Ferguson. "It doesn't matter. We don't decide those things. I know my players will be ready."
Ferguson believes concentration will be the key to an improved outcome.
He prefers to dwell on the two meetings with Barcelona in the 2008 semi-final, when United were able to keep a pair of clean sheets, as the template his side must work towards.
"We showed fantastic concentration in those two ties," said Ferguson. "That is the key for us. It is an important issue in terms of Saturday."
Ferguson, whilst recognising Lionel Messi's brilliance, is refusing to single out the Argentina star for special attention.
"We have played against Barcelona three times with Messi in the team," he said.
"But there is always a solution to every good player. Hopefully we can find one on Saturday.
"They have other good players though, and so do we. That is why it is such an appealing game. I am sure Barcelona are aware of that."
Source: PA
