Sir Brown Knight will be helming his first game as Manchester United XI host FC Kiez in The Classic League Cup tonight, and as expected the pre-match press conference was anything but ordinary.
The Indian-Malaysian manager not only revealed his line-up. He also disclosed the formation and tactics to the media:
"I believe this is the ultimate ... no, not Ultimate, what's the correct word? CLASSIC! Yes! I believe this is the Classic show of confidence in my squad tonight, that I reveal to you exactly what our tactics are beforehand."
It was an inside joke, but those who remember Sir Brown's last stint as manager in Xpert Eleven would get the wordplay in the gaffer's statement. The former Ultimate League manager has announced his arrival to Classic League in his own unique style.
"We will be playing a 5-3-2 formation, and we have prepared for a 4-4-2 formation from their side. We will attack on the wings as we believe our opponents will tighten the centre. Both our defensive strategy and aggression will be normal as we expect our opponents to have a varied attack and adopt a careful approach to the match."
Sir Brown also revealed that his side's playing style will be normal to counter the visitors' offensive style of play:
"We know they will apply pressure, so we will rely on long balls as our 3-man midfield will not be looking to hold most of the possession."
Referee Warren Peace (S5,H5) will be overseeing the proceedings at Old Trafford tonight, prompting a no offside traps and no cheating approach from the squad to be on the safe side.
In his trademark move, the master tactician admitted he will be playing a young goalkeeper out of position, as Julius Norell will make his debut as a wide defender:
"Ricardo (Peixeiro) will be our first choice keeper for the next five to seven seasons. As always, I believe a young keeper like Julius should get the match experience but not at the expense of results. Games like these are the best way to give them some much needed game time."
Ten players will be making their first starts for United tonight, with three others coming on in the second half. United have not scored a single goal in the last three seasons, while their last win came five seasons ago.
With a complete overhaul of the squad, Sir Brown is targeting a best ever finish for the club that has never finished in the top half of the bottom division. Their cup record is even worse, having never gotten past the first round. Kickoff at Old Trafford is in an hour.