Severe weather in Lombardy threatened Manchester United's Champions League match against Como at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. An orange weather alert and relentless rain left the staging of the game in doubt.
Alert and pitch concerns
Italian authorities issued an orange weather alert across the Lombardy region. The area has been battered continually by rain, the playing surface was saturated, and the prospect of lightning added further safety concerns.
According to Press Association's Simon Peach, forecasts predict up to 64mm of rainfall before the scheduled kick-off at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. Only one of the stadium's four stands provides a roof.
Como's position
Como officials currently remain optimistic that the pitch will drain sufficiently to avoid a late cancellation.
United absentees in training
Manchester United had six first-team players miss training. Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu were among the absentees.
Carrick's comments
Manchester United had taken three points from their opening two Champions League fixtures. Addressing the media before the trip, United manager Michael Carrick downplayed the impact of the rain on his squad's preparations. He said: "No, nothing immediate from me, we're used to the rain. We'll make the most of it!"
Carrick also addressed his job security. He said: "I don't need any reassurance. It's pretty clear. I know the role, I know my responsibilities, I don't need anyone to tell me when it's going well or when it needs to be better. I know the realities and have no problem with that. I know we got to win football games for everything to flow and fit into place. I feel backed, yeah, why wouldn't I? I have a really good relationship with everyone at the football club. There are no issues on that side."