John O'Shea explains why Manchester United's clash with Villarreal is not 'must win'

Former Manchester United defender John O'Shea doesn't think the team is facing a "must-win" fixture in the Champions League on Wednesday against Villarreal.

After losing their opening European fixture of the season against Young Boys, the Red Devils are still awaiting their first point in the group stage.

They have tricky clashes to come in the competition too, with Europa League winners Villarreal and Serie A free-scorers Atalanta also vying for qualification.

After a strong start to the new season, the defeat to Young Boys triggered a difficult run for the Red Devils. While they won at West Ham United in the Premier League, they were beaten by them 1-0 in the League Cup and then turned over by Aston Villa by the same scoreline.

Speaking to TalkSport ahead of the game, O'Shea was asked if he thought the match at Old Trafford was must win after the recent results United have endured.

"I wouldn't say must win, because obviously the way the qualification works," said the 40-year-old. "But, yeah, they'll obviously be looking for a win especially at home and especially after the first game and the result out in Switzerland.

"Yeah they'll be looking to bounce back after the weekend as well and I'm sure they'll be fully focused on it and we all know Villarreal and Unai Emery - they're no mugs either so it'll be a tough one. They'll want to bounce back and I'm sure they will."

O'Shea was a crucial squad player during his time with the Red Devils, filling in in a number of important positions over the course of his 12-year stint with the club.

The Irishman won the Champions League with United in 2008, as well as five Premier League titles and one FA Cup.

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