Manchester United fan Joy-Lance Mickels ready to fulfil lifelong dream at Old Trafford

Joy-Lance Mickels says he will fulfil a lifelong dream when he walks out at Old Trafford with Sabah for their Champions League meeting with Manchester United.

The 32-year-old Rwanda international is expected to start in attack for the Azerbaijani champions when they face the Red Devils in the opening round of the league phase on Thursday at 20:00 BST.

Mickels, who has supported United since childhood, says the prospect of playing at the club’s famous home makes the occasion even more special.

“I watch every Man Utd game when I can,” he told BBC World Service.

“It was the best draw we [Sabah] got in my opinion. It makes it even better because we’re going to play in Old Trafford.

“Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, so it will be a proud moment to step out on to the pitch.”

Mickels is in his second spell with Sabah, who are based in Masazir, around 16km (10 miles) north-west of Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku.

He has played a key role in the club’s historic run to the Champions League league phase, scoring four goals during qualifying.

Sabah, who were founded only nine years ago, negotiated four two-legged ties to reach the competition proper.

Mickels scored the decisive goal in their play-off victory over Israeli side Hapoel Be’er Sheva, with Sabah eventually securing a 6-4 aggregate win after a 94th-minute goal had sent the tie into extra time.

“Reaching the Champions League is a historic achievement for Sabah and starting the league phase at Old Trafford makes it even more exciting,” Mickels said.

“At the same time, we’re not going there only to enjoy the atmosphere.

“We want to compete, to represent not only our club but Azerbaijan in the best possible way, and show we deserve to be there.”