Jack Ross has insisted he has no concerns of handing Aziz Behich a baptism of fire in Thursday's all-or-nothing Europa Conference League clash with AZ Alkmaar.
United were given a welcome boost before they headed to Holland when the Australian international was finally given his work permit. The 31-year-old has played in a World Cup and won more than 50 caps for his country and Ross reckons he has all the experience to handle tomorrow night’s AFAS clash, with United going in protecting a 1-0 lead.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Ross said: “When you have someone with Aziz’s experience it negates any worries about handling the occasion because he’s played in Europe numerous times and has a lot of caps for his country. He’s played in a lot of big matches in his career and has that pedigree. Aziz is tough, he’s robust and naturally in a good condition so there’s that psychological aspect of it as well, knowing he can get through games.
"If we didn’t think he was ready to go he wouldn’t have travelled, no matter the work permit situation. He’s a passionate lad and you could see him get increasingly frustrated because he’s been preparing to be involved right to the last minute.
“He has trained really well and has been desperate to be involved, so we are really pleased to have him with us. He gives us another option in that area, what he brings is real international and domestic experience.
“He has enjoyed a challenge in his career and is absolutely desperate to be involved before the World Cup. With him available now it strengthens our squad again.”
United are ahead in the tie but Ross is adamant that AZ are favourites. He claimed: “AZ are favourites for the match and the tie overall. Given their record in Europe and their record here in their home stadium they have to be.
“We have not touched on that too much in terms of the pressure being on them. If we can play the way we did last Thursday then ultimately they will carry the burden of expectation more than us.
“You have to treat each game in isolation so I haven’t thought about the first leg scoreline ahead of this game. All we have done is prepare the team against a good side and aim to win the game. How we approach it will be trying to win it knowing that if we do that we’ll be successful in the tie overall.”
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