Manchester United eye redemption in Europa final

As one of just six clubs to have never been relegated from the Premier League since its inception in 1992, Manchester United came worryingly close to the drop this season.

Under Ruben Amorim, United find themselves in 16th position on the league table, above the three relegated teams – Leicester City, Ipswich Town, Southampton – and Tottenham Hotspur.

While Amorim has pledged patience as he works on a long-term plan for success for the club, it’s a far cry from the days under Alex Ferguson when United were the dominant force in English football.

On Wednesday though, there is a chance to salvage something from a season to forget for United when they take on Spurs in the Europa League final in Bilbao, Spain. Kick-off is at 9pm SA time.

Champions League Qualification: A £100 Million Incentive

Not only will a piece of silverware go down rather well for either side, but the winner will earn a place in the UEFA Champions League next season, which is possibly the bigger prize.

United legend Sammy McIlroy, who spent 11 years with the club from 1971 to 1982, said earning that Champions League ticket would be huge.

“We’ve got an opportunity of salvaging something – and it’s a massive prize if we do with Champions League football next season,” McIlroy told Sportsboom.com.

“It would be more something like £100 million for the club, so that in itself is an incentive to give it your best shot right until the final whistle. That’s what we’ve got to do."

“At the end of the day, there’s no point talking about the league because everyone knows how disappointing it’s been. It’s been shocking for Manchester United to be where they are in the modern game today. For us to be where we are is not acceptable.”

As for Amorim, McIlroy said he could play his cards closer to his chest.

“The manager [Ruben Amorim] has been open and honest about it. Maybe at times too honest, but fair play to him because he’s said exactly how he’s felt. A lot of managers don’t do that these days; they keep it inside the club."

“This is a massive game, absolutely massive. It’s the most important game for Manchester United for years.”

@Michael_Sherman