Source: Manchester_EveningNews
United set for Dublin friendly
Manchester United have confirmed they will play a friendly in Dublin on August 4 to open the new Aviva Stadium. The encounter will pit Sir Alex Ferguson's men into battle with an Airtricity League XI as part of United's plans for the 2010-11 campaign. Aside from being a competitive match against a team made up of players who will be midway through their domestic season - even if they are shorn of a few stars by European commitments - it also gives a chance for United's legion of Irish fans to see them in action. Ireland is the country with the largest number of season-ticket holders outside the UK and has a rich history of providing players for the Old Trafford club, dating back to former skipper Johnny Carey, through to John O'Shea in the current squad. I am really looking forward to going back to Dublin, said Sir Alex Ferguson, who was also in charge when United made their last visit in 2002. We have a massive fan base in Ireland. It will be great to play a match on their home turf and I know the Irish supporters will make the atmosphere very special.