‘It’s the biggest thing’ – Charlton boss makes Old Trafford admission ahead of Manchester United quarter-final

Dean Holden says “the biggest thing” his Charlton Athletic squad have to cope with tomorrow night against Manchester United is to make sure they are not overawed by the experience.

The Addicks, 12th in League One, travel to the Red Devils with a place in the semi-final of the EFL Cup on the line.

Under the guidance of then caretaker boss Anthony Hayes – and with Holden in the stands after his appointment as Ben Garner’s replacement was confirmed – the South Londoners knocked out Premier League side Brighton on penalties in the previous round the competition.

Charlton last reached this stage of the competition in 2006, with only Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, the only current squad member to have played in the Premier League.

United are back into the top four of the Premier League under Erik ten Hag and in the last 16 of the Europa League.

“It’s the biggest thing on the evening,” said Holden, of making sure the occasion does not get to his players.

“I focused on it from day one when I first came in two and a half weeks ago: ‘You just focus on today. Don’t get too carried away by anything – deal with the moment that is in front of you. That’s the only thing you can affect.’’

“We have managed to do that. I can’t sit here and categorically say that that’s not going to happen – there are some young players who are experiencing this for the first time.

“That’s all we can control – make sure we’re in the moment. Just concentrate on what you do well and believe that we have got something to give in the game and see where it takes you.

“That will be the biggest thing.”

PICTURES: PAUL EDWARDS