Ferguson happy with draw

United boss looking forward to Celtic clashes

Last updated: 29th August 2008

Sir Alex Ferguson Peterborough v Manchester United

Ferguson: Content with draw

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson declared himself happy with his side's UEFA Champions League draw.

The holders have been drawn against SPL champions Celtic, Spaniards Villarreal and Danish side Aalborg in Group E.

Ferguson is glad his side have managed to avoid potential hazardous trips to far-flung destinations in the group stages.

The Scot is relishing the prospect of going back to Glasgow and locking horns with Celtic in another Battle of Britain showdown two years after the two sides met in the group stages.

"We've had Villarreal and Celtic before, but Aalborg is a new one," Ferguson told the club's official website.

Bonus

"The bonus for us is there's not much travelling to do. We're satisfied with the group and we hope to get the 10 points to see us qualify.

"It's always nice to go to my home city and being drawn against Celtic adds a bit of spice to the group."

United chief executive David Gill also claimed he was pleased with the draw as the Old Trafford club look to retain Europe's top prize.

"Overall we are pretty pleased with it (the draw)," Gill told Sky Sports News.

"As defending champions we're going to look forward to it.

"You get a tingle in your spine when you see the flashbacks to Moscow. Everyone at the club is very motivated."

Great event
Gill admitted the two ties with Celtic will be special occasions for both sets of fans.

"It's a great event, their passionate fans and our passionate fans at Old Trafford and up at Celtic Park," added Gill.

"I'm sure the players and fans are looking forward to those fixtures.

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