Aston Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane on red alert for Manchester United

The Republic of Ireland international was a big United fan growing up in Cork and used to regularly travel with his family to watch his heroes in action.

Hourihane, who marked his return to the Villa team with a goal and assist in Monday’s 2-0 win over Newcastle, has never faced United before in his playing career.

And he is hoping to get the nod when Dean Smith’s men head to Old Trafford.

“I have played in so-called big games before but I have never played against United,” he said. “If selected, it will be a fantastic occasion

“I used to fly over and watch them because my dad is a United fan and my brother and sister.

“I have been to three or four games when I was younger before I moved to England.

“I was at Alex Ferguson's last home game as a manager – Swansea. It will be great.”

United currently sit just three points ahead of Villa in the Premier League table and Hourihane added: “They are in a bit of a transition.

“Now I am here in the Premier League, I don't worry about them so much.

“We will get ready for that game and be ready and focused, definitely. We will have done our homework.”