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Manchester United v Athletic Bilbao: Live Score, Analysis, Recap

Michael Cummings@MikeCummings37X.com LogoWorld Football Lead WriterMarch 7, 2012

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 08:  Wayne Rooney of Manchester United and his team mates look dejected after conceding an equalising goal during the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 first leg match between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford on March 8, 2012 in Manchester, England.  (Photo by Jamie McDonald/Getty Images)
Jamie McDonald/Getty Images

Watch out. Sir Alex Ferguson is making up phrases now.

That can only mean one thing: A big game is coming.

Manchester United are set to host Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night in the Europa League third round. Ahead of the match, Fergie has challenged his players to "waken up."

"It's a game we need to waken up in," said Ferguson.

"Some of our European performances this season have been disappointing.

"But this is an opportunity for us to progress and we need to take it.

"But we will need a very good performance. This Athletic Bilbao side is the best I've seen."

Well, that's debatable. Bilbao are currently fifth in the La Liga table.

Nonetheless, Ferguson probably has a point. Bilbao will present a stiff challenge for United, and we'll be here with live commentary for the whole thing.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. Eastern. Live updates will start right here at 2:45. See you then.

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Lineups

Manchester United: David De Gea, Patrice Evra, Rafael, Jonathan Evans, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Ryan Giggs, Park Ji-Sung, Ashley Young, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez.

Subs: Ben Amos, Rio Ferdinand, Fabio, Michael Carrick, Nani, Anderson, Danny Welbeck

Athletic Bilbao: Gorka Iraizoz, Andoni Iraola, Mikel San Jose, Jon Aurtenetxe, Javi Martinez, Susaeta, Ander Iturraspe, Ander Herrera, Fernando Llorente, Oscar, Muniaín.

Subs: Raúl, Lertxundi Del Campo Koikili, Borja Ekiza, David Lopez, Gaizka Toquero, Inigo Perez, Ibai Gomez

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Goals

Manchester United: Wayne Rooney (22', pen. 90')

Athletic Bilbao: Fernando Llorente (44'); Oscar De Marcos (72'); Iker Muniaín (90')