Ferguson demands up-tempo performance

Sir Alex Ferguson has urged Manchester United to go "full throttle" in their attempt to overcome FC Porto at Old Trafford.

Ferguson's men odds-on favourites to reach their third successive semi-final, but the Red Devils chief is taking nothing for granted. And even though his side are back in action barely 48 hours after the thrilling 3-2 win over Aston Villa, he is demanding that they hold nothing back.

"It would be stupid to think this is going to be easy," said Ferguson.

He added: "When teams are used to winning their domestic title, as Porto are in Portugal, you always feel they will play with great confidence.

"They have a lot of South Americans in their team as well, which gives them a great physical strength.

"By beating Atletico Madrid in the last round, Porto proved they will be hard to beat. Complacency does not come into it as far as we are concerned.

"We will be going at full throttle in order to get the result we want."

United will be bolstered by the return of Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Paul Scholes from suspension, although not Rio Ferdinand, who is still troubled by a groin injury. However, the majority of Ferguson's starting line-up will be asked to follow up from Sunday, ensuring there was only time for a massage and a few loosening exercises in training on Monday morning.

Cristiano Ronaldo is certain to be a key figure, although he once again was forced to state how happy he is at Old Trafford amid fresh reports of a potential summer move to Real Madrid.

"We always have this question," he grumbled, with Ferguson adding the continued speculation was "pathetic" before Ronaldo delivered his well-rehearsed response. "I am happy at this club. I think it is the right club," said Ronaldo.