Darron Gibson and Gary Neville were also notable absentees, although Ryan Giggs was there, along with Wayne Rooney, who is expected to make his first start since the Premier League visit to Bolton at the beginning of last month. United require a single point to confirm their presence in the last 16, although it will not be easy in a highly-charged atmosphere at Ibrox. However, whilst Park Ji-sung acknowledges the intensity of a Battle of Britain collision, he does not feel it quite matches the games he plays for South Korea against Japan. "We have a long history with Japan," he said. "When South Korea play against Japan the fans tell us that if we lose they are going to throw the players into the sea. "Without doubt, they are the biggest thing for us." Yet Park is acutely aware of the cross-border tensions that surround English meetings with Scotland. His own experiences involve Celtic. But he knows he should expect something similarly special. "The atmosphere in the stadium is totally different," he said. "You cannot compare it to a league game or others in the Champions League. "It more aggressive on the pitch and the atmosphere in the stadium is really high. There is a lot more media attention as well. "Nobody has to say anything, it is just a natural feeling that this is a different game. "And it doesn't only apply to the British players. It is equally special for the foreign ones as well." A clash with this particular member of the Old Firm holds unique allure for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, a former Rangers player. But the 68-year-old has enough experience to recognise only one thing counts. Getting that point to secure a place in the knock-out stages with a game to spare. "If we get a draw we will be through," said Park. "But we are not going there to get one point. We want three. "If we get through the manager can rest a few players for the last game, which is a far better option for home when you consider the number of league games and other cup ties we still have to deal with."
