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Man Utd vs Athletic Bilbao: Team News, Likely Line-up & Predicted Score

Man Utd take on Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford tonight in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie. Here’s team news, likely line-up & predicted score.

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Manchester United take on Spanish outfit Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford tonight in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed in his press conference that he will field a strong line-up and look to take an advantage over to Spain for the second leg. However, he also stressed the need to keep a clean sheet tonight as the experienced Scot knows only too well of the importance of away goals.

The Red Devils will look to end a poor home run in Europe this season, having won only one of their previous four European games at Old Trafford this season.

Team News

Ferguson is able to welcome back Tom Cleverley who has recovered from an ankle knock, while Anderson also returns for the game after recovering from a long term knee injury.

Defender Chris Smalling could return though after missing the weekend win over Tottenham with a nasty head injury he picked up while playing for England.

It’s likely that Paul Scholes will be rested after being given the day off on Wednesday, while Antonio Valencia and Nemanja Vidic remain on the sidelines.

The visitors have severe problems at the back with central defensive trio Aitor Ocio, Xabi Castillo and Iban Zubiaurre all injured, and Fernando Amorebieta is also suspended.

Likely Line-up

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Predicted Score

Man Utd are a formidable force at home, despite their poor form in Europe this season, and with Bilbao’s defensive problems i can see United having a relatively comfortable evening. Rooney and Hernandez will cause their make-shift back-line all sorts of problems. Man Utd 3-0 Athletic Bilbao

What are your thoughts on the game? What will the score be?

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