Football: Cantona set for noisy return

ERIC CANTONA returns to Elland Road's theatre of screams tonight, knowing he faces an evening of unremitting vilification, but also aware that victory over Leeds could leave Manchester United within one victory of the Premiership title.

Blackburn Rovers, their dogged challenge looking ragged of late, must prevail at West Ham to ensure United cannot settle the title's destiny by winning at Ipswich Town on Sunday - May Day becoming a Red celebration.

United expect a hostile reception, the departure of Cantona providing only part of the reason. The relationship between the supporters is unhealthy at best while Leeds, through a complex and unlikely chain of events, could find themselves in the Uefa Cup by not ceding fifth place.

Cantona, fined pounds 1,000 for spitting at a fan on his first return to Elland Road, will be accompanied by a bodyguard, a precaution Leeds insist is

unnecessary. 'We are fully confident we can deal with the situation,' Leeds' safety officer, Alan Roberts, said.

Howard Wilkinson was unimpressed by the pre-match hype centred on a former

employee he fell out with. 'Anyone would think we were playing Cantona United, not Manchester United,' the Leeds manager said. 'I don't want to discuss individuals, but Manchester United have set exceptionally high standards which I believe will win them the title again, no matter how our result turns out.' Wilkinson may turn to Gordon Strachan as David White is doubtful with an ankle injury.

Wilkinson's Blackburn counterpart, Kenny Dalglish, has queries over Newell, Wilcox, Sherwood and Warhurst for the game at Upton Park, where a point will guarantee Rovers their first experience of Europe.

The European Cup semi- finals take place tonight with Bobby Robson, the Porto manager, predicting 'plenty of goals' in his team's visit to Barcelona. The victors will play

either the favourites, Milan, or Monaco, who meet at the San Siro. 'We have to go all out,' Monaco's coach, Arsene Wenger, said optimistically.

Match reports, page 39