Ferdinand, Ince & more: Twitter reacts to Man United’s Real Madrid test

Rio Ferdinand has expressed his delight at seeing Manchester United pitted against Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16 in the draw on Thursday.

Elsewhere, Arsenal welcome Bayern Munich to The Emirates in the first leg of their second-round tie, while Celtic were rewarded for their efforts in the group stage with a clash against Serie A champions Juventus.

Here is the best of the Twitter reaction from the professionals – past and present.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon ‏(@OfficialNeil) is relishing a big tie: “Boooooom…..absolute beauty of a tie…very tough but then they all potentially were..brings back great memories!”

Former Hoops striker John Hartson ‏(@JohnHartson10) is excited: “What a great tie that is Juventus..tough match but they’re all tough matches at this level..”

Dutch legend Ruud van Nistelrooy ‏(@RvN1776) is looking forward to the meeting between his old two clubs: “United or Madrid.. Who do I want to win? Played my heart out for them both. Proud to have played for both. #impossible #MayTheBestTeamWin.”

Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fàbregas (‏@cesc4official) breaks the news to his followers: “We will play against Milan! It will be a great qualifying round! #ChampionsLeague”

United defender Rio Ferdinand ‏(@rioferdy5) is excited to meet an old friend: “Oh yes, Madrid!! What a great couple a games that’ll be!! @Cristiano see u soon bro!!!”

Blackpool forward Thomas Ince ‏(@RealThomasInce) is certainly excited by the tie: “Wow…… Real Madrid versus Man United!!!! #whatagame”

However, former Aston Villa star Ian Taylor (‏@IanTaylor7) is more excited by the Capital One Cup draw: “#ChampionsLeagueDraw not as good as #CapitalOneCup draw eh??!! Lol!!”

David Meyler ‏(@DavidMeyler) is relishing another memorable Parkhead night: “Celtic v Juventus #coybig #hailhail! I’ve a bet with @sonealuko that Celtic will go through, never doubt the Bhoys!”

England legend Gary Lineker ‏(@GaryLineker) digests the draw: “Fascinating Champions League draw with all the monsters drawn against each other. Manchester United in drawing Real Madrid showing, once again, how important it is to win your group…Oh wait a minute!”

Finally, Darren Gough (‏@DGoughie) enjoys the irony of the draw: “Same draw as yesterday’s rehearsal. Brilliant!”