Newcastle midfielder Nolberto Solano is confident his side will not be blown off their Champions League course by the storm which has extended their stay in Spain. Bobby Robson's side, weather permitting, will run out to meet Barcelona at the Nou Camp tonight 24 hours late after rain, thunder and lightning during a dismal day in Catalonia eventually forced the postponement of the game.
While many of their fans were forced to fly home last night after a fruitless journey, the United players were refocusing after a lengthy debate involving the two clubs, UEFA officials and television companies eventually produced the decision for which both Robson and opposite number Louis van Gaal had first opted.
But the winger admitted: "We're a little bit disappointed because we were ready to play. But it's nobody's fault, not ours or Barcelona's. It's a difficult situation, but it's okay."
United chairman Freddy Shepherd announced immediately that those supporters who had travelled with the club's official party would be recompensed, but many of the 4,200 who made the trip at an estimated cost in excess of £300 each are now facing the prospect of following their side's progress from back home on Tyneside.
In tonight's other scheduled fixtures, defending champions Real Madrid are at home to Group C rivals Lokomotiv Moscow, while Borussia Dortmund have home advantage against Italian giants AC Milan. In Group D, Manchester United are in action against Deportivo La Coruna at Old Trafford, with Juventus at home to Basle.
Filed by Shane Murray
