Heinze out to shackle KeitaManchester United FC defender Gabriel Heinze has identified the returning Kader Keita as LOSC Lille Métropole's danger man going into the teams' return leg at Old Trafford.
Likely starterWith Patrice Evra struggling for fitness, Heinze is expected to start at left-back on Wednesday, when he will come up against the right-sided Ivorian attacker. The pacy, inventive Keita sat out the first leg of this UEFA Champions League first knockout round tie through suspension but struck twice in Lille's 4-0 weekend win over ES Troyes Aube Champagne. "It's true that he is a good player," said Heinze. "He has a lot of quality and he is a crucial player for Lille, but on our side, we will do the maximum to stop him."
French reunionHeinze, who spent three years in French football with Paris Saint-Germain FC, added that he is anticipating a stern test of United's European ambitions, despite the 1-0 advantage they earned in France a fortnight ago. "Lille showed their quality when we went there. They are a top quality, compact, aggressive team with young players, and they're a difficult rival. For me, it's a difficult match but the most important thing is what Manchester United do."
Squad systemFor the 28-year-old Argentinian international, this season has brought his own personal battle for the left-back berth with Evra - a place he lost when sidelined for much of last term with a cruciate ligament injury. Despite four UEFA Champions League appearances, he has played in only 13 of United's Premiership games but will be raring to contribute if called upon against Lille. "We're fighting on three fronts and we have a squad of 24, 25 players," he said. "It's important to be ready when the manager calls on you."