AS Roma clash shocks Fergie
14 Mar 2008 - 13:51:35
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- AS Roma clash shocks Fergie
Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed his surprise at being paired with familiar opposition in AS AS Roma in the draw for the Champions League quarter-finals.
United have already met the Italian side twice this season after the two teams were pitted against each other in the group stages.
The Red Devils won 1-0 at Old Trafford courtesy of a Wayne Rooney goal before securing a 1-1 draw with a weakened line-up in the last matchday with their position at the top of Group F already confirmed.
Last season, Ferguson's side lost the first leg of a quarter-final tie 2-1 in Rome, before thrashing a stunned Giallorossi 7-1 in the return encounter at Old Trafford.
However, Ferguson expected to be paired with another English side with United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool dominating the last-eight draw at UEFA headquarters in Nyon.
"It's incredible," he told the club's official website. "I had a strong feeling that we'd draw an English side. It's amazing to think that we'll have played AS Roma six times in a year.
"That makes it an intriguing tie because we know a lot about AS Roma, but they know a lot about us."
Meanwhile, Ferguson is keeping his fingers crossed that there is no repeat of the crowd trouble which has marred United's recent trips to the Stadio Olimpico.
"Away from the football, obviously my biggest concern is the fans," he continued.
"During the game in Rome this season the security was much improved. But there will be even more fans travelling with us for this match. That said, I have a feeling it will be another great European tie."