Ince hopes for Old Trafford "kick-start"

3rd December 2008

Blackburn boss Paul Ince has urged his players to embrace the Carling Cup quarter-final showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

After a run of nine Premier League matches without a win that has led to Ince coming under fire, Blackburn face a daunting task against a United side beaten just once in their last 18 games.

Ince, though, is far from concerned about the pressure seemingly bearing down on his shoulders, and feels the players should in turn go out and express themselves.

"The game is a welcome distraction from the league," said Ince, who spent six years on United's books, making 281 appearances from 1989 to 1995. "But then speaking to the lads we all wish it was a league game as we know we are playing good football, but we're not having that bit of luck you need.

"I'd obviously rather pick up points than go through to the next round, but at the end of the day, this game is what it is.

"It's a great chance for us to go to Old Trafford, with 65,000 fans there, and kick-start our season. That's the aim. There's no pressure on us to go and win the game. We just have to embrace it, enjoy it, and see what happens come the final whistle."