Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says they can handle the red hot reception of Galatasaray.

It is 19 years since Ferguson led his newly-crowned English champions into the cauldron of the Ali Sami Yen stadium and ended up crashing out of Europe amid chaotic scenes.

Galatasaray have swapped stadiums since - to the plush Turk Telecom Arena - but their supporters remain some of the most fanatical in Europe.

They turned out in vast numbers to await United's arrival on Monday evening, only to discover Ferguson and his players had exited through a separate terminal.

There will be no escape on Tuesday as the Red Devils look to defend their 100% record in this season's competition. And Ferguson cannot wait.

"We didn't get the greeting by the fans (this time) - we dodged that," said the United boss.

"In 1993 when we came here it was incredible.

"It was something new and quite frightening.

"But we've been here a few times since and we're getting used to the Turkish fanaticism and enthusiasm.

"It's no issue for us."