It was 2007. Manchester United had just suffered a 2-1 defeat to AS Roma in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, amid clashes between supporters and Italian police in the stands and a difficult night for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.

Needing to overturn the deficit at Old Trafford, United, featuring the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand, produced one of the most memorable European nights in the club’s history.

They demolished the Italian side 7-1 to book their place in the semi-finals, before eventually being knocked out by AC Milan.

Michael Carrick, now United’s manager, helped set the tone with a superb performance, scoring twice on the night. Almost 20 years later, however, he finds himself under very different circumstances, with his current side enduring a nine-match winless run and his position coming under increasing scrutiny despite continued backing from the board.

Amid a difficult period for the club, his former teammate Rio Ferdinand has taken to X to reflect on that famous night, offering a reminder of what United can achieve at their best. He also recalled the words of former manager Sir Alex Ferguson following the remarkable victory.

Although the circumstances have changed considerably since 2007, could Carrick inspire his current squad to produce a similar performance when they face Roma at Old Trafford tonight in their fourth Champions League league-phase fixture?

Sir Alex and Rio: What was said?

Ahead of Manchester United’s clash with Roma, Rio Ferdinand took to X to remind fans of the club’s famous 7-1 victory in 2007, sharing an image of the scoreline at Old Trafford alongside the caption: “Who remembers this night in 2007?”

Ferdinand also recalled Sir Alex Ferguson’s words in the dressing room after the game: “You’re fortunate to get a night like this.” A short but memorable remark that has clearly stayed with the former United and England defender.

Ferguson won two Champions League titles during his time at Old Trafford, in 1999 and 2008, as part of an illustrious managerial career. United also reached two other finals and three further semi-finals under his leadership.

Since his departure in 2013, however, the Red Devils have failed to reach the last four of the competition, with their only major European trophy coming in the form of the Europa League under José Mourinho in 2017.

Ferdinand’s post may simply be a nostalgic reminder of better times, but it could also offer a little optimism during a difficult period for the club.

The question now is whether Carrick can inspire his current side to produce a performance worthy of that famous night.

Can Carrick pull off something similar?

There is little doubt that Manchester United have changed considerably since their famous 2007 side. While many supporters would love to see that team back in its prime, or Carrick himself lace up his boots and reproduce another match-winning performance, the 45-year-old must now try to inspire his players from the touchline.

United's recent form makes that task even more difficult. Three consecutive defeats have left the Red Devils 17th in the Premier League and 20th in the UCL League Phase, while Roma arrive at Old Trafford unbeaten in six away matches, providing a stern test for the hosts.

Despite growing speculation over his future, with many viewing his departure as a matter of when rather than if, Carrick struck an optimistic tone ahead of tonight's Champions League clash.

Speaking in his press conference, he said: "I am really looking forward to the game tomorrow."

He added: "You might think I'm crazy, but I can't wait. Whatever happens will happen after that, whatever direction it goes in."

United host Roma at Old Trafford tonight at 20:00 BST, with Carrick needing to inspire a fearless, nothing-to-lose performance from his players, or the in-form Italian side actually could be capable of hitting close to a 7-1 in revenge.