Ferguson: Home turf matters April 29 2008
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson expects his side's proud UEFA Champions League record to be tested to the full on Tuesday night.
While United's away form in the league has dipped there is no disputing at Old Trafford is a difficult ground for teams to visit.
And the Scot is looking for his charges to make it 12 straight home wins in the competition when they face Barcelona.
That would see them progress to the final in Moscow - and an all Premier League showdown against either Liverpool or Chelsea - following the 0-0 draw at the Nou Camp in the first leg.
The Red Devils go into the match on the back of a controversial 2-1 defeat by the Blues that has opened up the title race.
Ferguson is certainly not taking anything for granted despite his side's great home form in Europe.
He said: "It is a marvellous record, I cannot dispute that. We are proud of it. It does not change the aspect of this game, however.
"It will be a very balanced game, an open game, a fascinating game.
"It will be tactical at times and given nights like this, the fans can have an impact on our team.
"But our home record does not matter in this instance. It is just a good record, that's all."
The English champions went out at the semi-final stage last season to AC Milan but Ferguson is quietly confident they will not trip up this time.
"We have a very good team and some big-game players. We have a chance, a marvellous chance," he explained.
"While we have been unlucky in some semi-finals, Milan were much better prepared than us last season. We now have a bigger squad and that helps us."
United will be more adventurous than they were at the Nou Camp but Ferguson is not expecting any surprises from Barca.
The Spanish giants are desperate to lift the trophy as they are off the pace in La Liga.
Fergie said: "They play the same system, the same way. They try and get you on that passing carousel and hope you get dizzy.
"I enjoy watching Barcelona. You have to be patient and on your guard when you play them."