The Red Devils were in this situation 2 years ago after, like last season, finishing 3rd and therefore having to qualify for Europe via the 3rd round qualifying stage.

Eastern Europe seems to be the regular destination for Sir Alex Ferguson and his boys to travel to qualify. They were handed a tough tie with Zalaegerszeg of Hungary then and now must travel to Romania to play Dinamo.

United fell behind 1-0 in Hungary 2 years ago but lashed out with authority in the return leg at Old Trafford, hammering them 5-0.

Romanians Dinamo Bucharest had to earn their right to play FA Cup winners United in the 3rd qualifying stage and did that by beating Zilina in the previous round.

As many as 9 senior players are missing for Manchester United due to various injuries and so on. Alan Smith and Diego Forlan are likely to start their partnership seem as Ruud van Nistelrooy and Louis Saha are both missing. Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Darren Fletcher will feature in midfield.

Tim Howard will keep his position in between the sticks whilst quartet Gary Neville, Wes Brown, John O'Shea and Quinton Fortune may make up the defence.

Bucharest's No.1 Cristian Munteanu will miss the game in goals because of suspension but United must look out for the potent Ionel Danciulescu upfront.

ManUtdWeb Prediction: Dinamo Bucharest v. Manchester United: When one thinks of Eastern Europe, one thinks of beautiful scenery, fantastic buildings and unpredictable football scores. United will either take out their pre-season frustration on Dinamo and completely thrash them or, like two years ago, will be technically tested and concede a late goal on the break. Most fans would be delighted with a draw.