Roeder Calls For "Aggressive Support"
Last updated : 08 March 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor
Roeder has guided his team through an amazing 12-match unbeaten run in Europe this season, and that in itself must worry the Dutch. But he wants the Toon fans to make it a night to remember by showing Louis van Gaal and his men true Geordie passion.
Roeder: "Without a shadow of doubt Alkmaar will the toughest side we have played so far. They are a good footballing side and I am glad I went across to Holland and watched them against Utrecht last week.
"They are what I would call a very Dutch side, and are typical of the way a club coached by Louis van Gaal play. We know we will have to play to our strengths and play an aggressive game against them.
"We also need our fans to be aggressive. We all saw what it was like at Anfield last night when Liverpool knocked Barcelona out of the Champions League.
"I have to say our supporters have been magnificent in Europe this season - and they will be so important to us against AZ Alkmaar.
"Louis van Gaal has been here with Barcelona and he will know what an atmosphere our supporters can create.
"He will remember only too well that night when United beat his Barcelona team in the Champions League back in 1997 at St James' Park.
"Our backroom staff, like physiotherapist Derek Wright, still talk about that night and if we can get some of that tomorrow it would be a big help."
The crowd is expected to be 30,000-plus.