London: Ashley Young felt Manchester United’s stunning victory over Chelsea set a benchmark ahead of the conclusion of their Europa League quarter-final against Anderlecht on Thursday. United revitalised their season and blew open the Premier League title race by sinking leaders Chelsea 2-0 on Sunday in a tactical masterclass by manager Jose Mourinho.
Despite dominating last week’s first leg against Anderlecht, United returned from Brussels with a 1-1 draw, but Young says they have no doubts about their ability to finish the job. “We have felt that kind of performance coming,” said the versatile England international, United’s captain against Chelsea.
United’s win over Chelsea enhanced their chances of securing a top-four finish in the league, leaving them four points behind fourth-place Manchester City with a game in hand. But whereas the path to a Champions League berth via the league remains steep, should they overcome Anderlecht, United will be just three games from securing qualification by winning the Europa League and they seem very furious in their attempt to sela the title.
United are bidding to become only the fifth club — after Juventus, Ajax, Bayern Munich and Chelsea — to win all three of Europe’s major cup competitions.
Lyon shaken
Lyon are braced for fresh turbulence as they take a 2-1 lead into the away leg of their tie against Turkish giants Besiktas at Istanbul. Peter Bosz’s exciting young Ajax team carry a 2-0 lead into the second leg of their tie at Schalke, while Celta Vigo are 3-2 up prior to their game at Genk.
