Manager David Artell expects a tough night but will push his side to give it their all
League Two side Grimsby Town will make their match against Manchester United as hostile as possible for the Premier League club, manager David Artell has vowed.
The two sides clash in the second round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, after United began the competition a round early, having not qualified for Europe.
Grimsby won 3-1 against Shrewsbury to set up the tie against a team three places above them in the English football hierarchy.
“We’ve earned our right to be playing against Manchester United by winning in the previous round and we’re here to compete,” Artell told The Guardian. “We’ve got to make it as hostile as we can for them both on and off the pitch.”
The last time the two clubs met was in 1948, in the then Division One, and the game ended 1-1. This time around there is a wide gulf in quality between them, but Artell insists his side will give the game their all.
“There is an element of this that can be uncomfortable [for United] and we’ve got to make it so on the pitch,” said Artell.
“It’ll be an extremely tough night for us, we’re under no illusions about the size of the task, but it’s a great game.
“I want the lads to see it as an opportunity, not just as an occasion, and this is what helps make players grow and it’s my job to make sure they go out ready to compete.
“We’re not stupid, we’re not getting ahead of ourselves, we know our place, but that doesn’t mean we just roll over.”
