Ferguson expects home comfort

SIR Alex Ferguson believes the “electric atmosphere” at Old Trafford next Tuesday can propel his Manchester United side into a Champions League semi–final.

Wayne Rooney scored a first–half goal at Stamford Bridge to give United a 1–0 lead against Chelsea after an all–English first leg which left the Londoners fuming at being denied an injury–time penalty.

Ferguson, however, believed justice was done even though television replays appeared to show Chelsea midfielder Ramires was brought down by Patrice Evra.

The United boss was more concerned that his side continue a run of never having lost a European tie after winning the away leg first.

Ferguson said: “It’s an advantage, but the biggest advantage is Old Trafford. It’ll be an electric atmosphere.

“We have to be very careful and have to play a top performance, but the atmosphere will help us.

“It’ll be a tight game at Old Trafford. I hope we get through Saturday’s match without any further injuries.”

United play Fulham this weekend and midfielder Anderson, who plays in the reserves tonight, is set to return from injury.

Ferguson’s only concern at Stamford Bridge was seeing full-back Rafael being carried off with a knee injury, which forced Antonio Valencia to be pressed into service as a makeshift right–back.

In contrast Rio Ferdinand returned after two months sidelined by injury and, alongside Nemanja Vidic, gave United’s defence a more solid look.