Michael Carrick is relishing the prospect of a red-hot atmosphere that his Manchester United players can expect on our first visit to Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The Reds return to action following a 13-day break with a Monday-night trip to Merseyside and another reunion with our former manager David Moyes.
It is reported that Toffees fans are planning their biggest flag display of the season so far, with over 400 set to be on show inside the ground ahead of kick-off.
Carrick believes the hostile reception can be a positive for his players.
“That’s what we’re in football at this level for - the more the better really,”
said the boss in an interview with club media.
“Those are the atmospheres you want to test yourself in and be part of. It shows that it means something when you’re in that environment so we’re looking forward to it.
“We’ve got to be ready for the game for what that’s going to bring but, all in all, a Monday-night game, Everton away, it will be a good night.”
Carras has never visited the 52,769-capacity stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock before, but was very accustomed with playing in the tight-knit surroundings of Everton’s former home Goodison Park.
Having played 25 times in the Premier League under Moyes in 2013/14, our former no.16 has huge respect for his opposite number and knows the Reds are in for a difficult evening against a team who were victorious at Old Trafford in November’s reverse fixture.
“I’m looking forward to it [Hill Dickinson Stadium], I’ve never been so it’s my first time as well,”
Michael told MUTV’s Mark Sullivan.
“Goodison was a tough, tough place to go at the best of times, no matter how we were playing or how they were playing. It was always one of the toughest grounds to go to.
“David [Moyes] has got so much experience in the league so going there, seeing him again will be nice but we know it’s going to be a tough game and we’re ready for that.
“As much as the new stadium is a thing, the game is the game and we’re looking forward to that. We’re going there in good form, in a good mood and good spirit and trying to keep this run going as much as we can.”