Reds games are massive

CHRIS Smalling believes Manchester United can flourish in this week’s “massive” matches if they can replicate the display that kept their FA Cup dreams alive.

Sunday looked set to be one of the low points in a troubled campaign as Dimitri Payet’s super free–kick put West Ham on course for Wembley. But the improved attitude and aptitude displayed by Louis van Gaal’s men helped secure a 1–1 draw, with Anthony Martial’s effort from an acute angle securing a quarter–final replay.

They now try to overturn a two–goal deficit in the Europa League against Liverpool on Thursday, before Sunday’s derby trip to Manchester City.

“I think it lifted us,” Smalling said of Martial’s leveller. “We showed fighting character and now we have got massive games to look forward to.”

Wayne Rooney, who has missed the last eight games, insists his recovery from a knee injury is on track and has targeted a return in April.



UNITED or West Ham will face Everton in the FA Cup semi-finals on either April 23 or 24 at Wembley.

Watford were drawn against Crystal Palace.