Ryan Giggs targets Europa League finish for Manchester United
Welshman takes temporary charge at Old Trafford for the remainder of the season
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Europa League may seem like a massive step down to Manchester United fans, but Ryan Giggs wants to make sure the club are in it next year.
Giggs has been handed the role of interim player-manager following the sacking of David Moyes.
Thanks to a record of 11 defeats in 34 matches, United have failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 19 years, but playing in the Europa League next term is still a possibility.
United will qualify for the competition if they overtake Spurs, who are six points ahead but have played one more match.
Another way in which United could qualify for the Europa League is if Arsenal finish fifth and win their FA Cup final against Hull next month.
The Europa League is nowhere near as well-respected as the Champions League in England, but Giggs still wants United to be part of it next year.
"I want to win (the final) four games. We are relying on other teams dropping points but I think it is important you have European football at Old Trafford," the United boss told MUTV.
"I want European nights at Old Trafford, it is as simple as that."
The first of Giggs' four matches in charge comes on Saturday evening when United take on Norwich at Old Trafford.
The Canaries, whose final two games are against Arsenal and Chelsea, are just two points above the relegation zone after four straight losses.
But Giggs has told his players the game will be no walkover.
"They are fighting for their lives so we won't underestimate them," the Welshman said.
"They ended the (3-2 defeat) against Liverpool really well. But we are Manchester United and we expect to win."
Giggs has an almost fully-fit squad to choose from for the match.
"Only Rafael and Robin (van) Persie) are injured," Giggs said. "Everyone else is fit."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments