MANCHESTER - - Feyenoord manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has urged their travelling support not to overshadow Thursday's Europa League game against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The Dutchman was asked, during his prematch news conference on Wednesday, about the thousands of fans who are expected to travel to Manchester without tickets for the game. A strong police presence is expected around the ground and city centre.
Van Bronckhorst said: "We always bring a lot of supporters. We want to concentrate on the game -- and want people to be talking about the game only. Hopefully, on Friday, that's all we'll read in the papers."
United are third in Europa League Group A, one point behind both Fenerbahce and Feyenoord, meaning that Jose Mourinho's men could be eliminated from Europe if they lose on Thursday. That would compound a difficult start to the season, with United in sixth place in the Premier League already six points adrift of the top four.
Discussing United's plight, former Arsenal player Van Bronckhorst refused to rule them out of the title race, but said that he can see a possibility of United going out of Europe in the group stage.
He said: "Obviously results aren't the way they'd want but they are still a great team. We have to be at our best. I have a lot of respect for their coach and their team.
"It's always difficult to go to a new team. He [Mourinho] has had success at every club.
"This year, there are many teams who can win [the title]. There are so many quality coaches, coaching big teams. You can't say who'll be champion. Lots are in the race.
"After four games, you see how our group is going. All three can qualify. All can not qualify. There are two big games -- not only for us but also for United and Fenerbahce."
Feyenoord's former Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Jones denied that he will be fired upon by his former connection with Anfield. He said: "It's another ground, another team. I'm not too nostalgic. What you'll always get is a tough game.
"Recently, their performances have been a lot better. That's something for us to watch. When you've got top players like they have, they'll come to the fore. There's a new manager, new players and it takes time."