The UEFA Champions League knockout stage gets underway with some heavyweight contests between Europe's best this week. The main event will see holders Manchester United face Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan on Tuesday, while Arsenal host Roma in another top clash. Spanish Primera Liga leaders Barcelona travel to Lyon, who are also top in France. Porto face Atletico Madrid at Vicente Calderon. Inter Milan V Manchester United Apart from the high-profile clash, the tie evokes memories of the old rivalry between United boss Alex Ferguson and ex-Chelsea manager Mourinho. Mourinho, who revealed his excitement for playing the English champions, has only lost once in 12 previous meeting with his United counterpart. "Before the draw I said that I wanted United and some people thought I was crazy. After all, why would I want the top team in Europe? But I wanted them because it's a big challenge and because it will be difficult," said the Portuguese. "I've known all about Manchester United since 2004. They're the best team in the world, they play on the counter-attack and we'll have to be very intelligent in how we deal with this." Inter have no real injury concerns, despite slight doubts around Christian Chivu and Walter Samuel. But United have several rearguard setbacks. Key defender Nemanja Vidic is suspended, Gary Neville and Wes Brown were ruled out with injuries, while Jonny Evans and John O'Shea are both struggling to get fit. Arsenal V Roma Arsenal will be looking to get over their domestic misfiring when they host Roma at Emirates Stadium. The Gunners failed to find the net during their last three league games.
Puyol confident "In the first part of the season we conceded too many goals and scored high," coach Arsene Wenger said. "In the second half of the season, we do not concede anymore, but we do not score." They will also miss injured strikers Emmanuel Adebayor and Eduardo da Silva, in addition to long-term absentees Cesc Fabregas, Theo Walcott and Tomas Rosicky. On the other hand, Roma ace Francesco Totti did not complete training on Monday and is declared doubtful for the game. Duo Mirko Vicinic and Juan are also likely to miss out. Lyon V Barcelona Barcelona encountered an unexpected stumble at the weekend, losing at home to bottom club Espanyol, while Ligue1 leaders Lyon have yet to be defeated this year. "We haven't secured good results in the last few days but we are not suffering any doubts. We are confident in our abilities and know the route we want to take," said Barca captain Carles Puyol. Puyol could be used a left-back as ex-Lyon full-back Eric Abidal was ruled out for eight weeks with a thigh injury. Midfielder Andres Iniesta is also another casualty. Lyon will have to do without France winger Sidney Govou, in addition to defenders Francois Clerc and Anthony Reveillere. Atletico Madrid V Porto Atletico new coach Abel Resino will make his continental debut after taking over from Javier Aguirre last month. Resino will have to do without Colombian defender Luis Perea, but Argentine ace Sergio Aguero should be fit to play after being rested against Sevilla in the league. Porto are also boosted by the return of influential playmaker Lucho Gonzalez from a knee injury.
