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Albelda eyes United upset

Image: Albelda: Hoping for home win

Captain David Albelda has his sights set on a home win when Valencia host Manchester United.

Los Che skipper targets victory in Spain

Valencia captain David Albelda has his sights set on a Manchester United upset when they host the Premier League giants on Wednesday. The Spanish club entertain the Red Devils at the Mestalla on the back of a 4-0 thumping of Turkish champions Bursaspor in their opening UEFA Champions League Group C encounter. Sir Alex Ferguson's side, meanwhile, have a solitary point to their name having been held to a goalless draw by an obdurately defensive Rangers side at Old Trafford.

Struggle

United also struggled domestically at the weekend, managing only a 2-2 draw in Premier League action on their trip to local rivals Bolton. And midfielder Albelda is convinced Valencia can pull off a home victory to earn another three points. "For me there are no doubts," said Albelda. "We are playing in Valencia and at this moment Manchester United are not favourites. "I don't dispute that the English club are favourites for the group, but Valencia want to win. "We respect the English club but our challenge is to collect three points for a more stable position in the group. Six points out of six will be perfect." Despite his confidence, Albelda accepts the Red Devils will have a point to prove following their Rangers stalemate. "Manchester possess a solid team with players who are very popular in Europe," he added. "They have suffered in the Premier League for the last few weeks, but the Champions League is different. "They need a reaction after their draw against Rangers at Old Trafford, which is dangerous for us."
Wary
Valencia sit top of the Primera Liga table having taken 13 points from their opening five games, but Albelda admits his side must be wary of United's experience. "We have enjoyed good games and results, but Manchester are used to big battles and that means we can't be over-confident on Wednesday," he said. "Valencia need to develop a consistent game to guarantee victory." He added: "For Valencia this match is similar to playing Barcelona or Real Madrid. We are hosting a historical club at our stadium."

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