SAVING PRIVATE RYAN

"I think what is happening to Ryan is embarrassing," Andy told the press ahead of Wednesday's second leg.

"Everyone knows he is a top player and for people to be saying he is past it and doesn't have the hunger he once had is just rubbish.

"I would have Ryan in my team every week because he is still a great player.

"I think people should appreciate what he has done for Manchester United over the past eleven years instead of talking about his indifferent form this season."

Just another game? I didn't think so.

"Regardless of whether it is Manchester United or anyone else, I want to get to another final," he said.

"I don't think many people gave us a chance in the first leg, when we came away with a well-earned draw.

"People came out and said Manchester United didn't play as well as they can, but you have to give us some credit.

"This Blackburn squad has improved over the past 12 months and it can only get even better given time."

"They start favourites because in a one-off situation they are as good as anyone in the game," he said.

The Entertainers

"Manchester United have the attitude that if you score one, we will score two
and that is what makes them so dangerous.

"They have a pedigree and a history, right from the days of Denis Law, George Best and Bobby Charlton, that commits them to a certain type of football.

"They believe - and I believe - they are the entertainers and they will not change their game plan because it's us, because it's a semi-final and because they only drew the first game 1-1.

"They will come after us right form the first whistle and that's why I say they are favourites."