Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United’s big-name summer signings hold the key to avoiding another embarrassing early Champions League exit - and dominating the continent once again.
After last year’s catastrophe when United crashed out in the group stage, Sir Alex Ferguson has already asserted there will be no repeat this year.
The three-time champions begin their campaign against Galatasaray at Old Trafford tonight and having seen what impact new recruits Robin van Persie and Shinji Kagawa have had in the early part of the season, Giggs is confident the manager has nothing to worry about.
“Robin has the experience of playing in Europe with Arsenal,” the veteran winger said.
“The goals he has got will hopefully give us that extra edge this season.
“Shinji’s the kind of player who’ll thrive in Europe, where possession is key. I’m sure they’ll both be very good additions in Europe for us.” United have had a hostile relationship with Galatasaray in the past, with fans of the Turkish club greeting the Red Devils with the banner “Welcome to Hell” in 1993.
“I remember it vividly,” Giggs added. “There were things thrown at us when we were driving away on the coach, fans outside the hotel chanting all night making sure we didn’t get any sleep and people phoning the hotel rooms. It had everything.”
Meanwhile, full-back Patrice Evra is a likely starter tonight after missing Saturday’s win over Wigan with a minor knock.
