Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand jokes that Louis van Gaal's 'horny' style is very different to Sir Alex Ferguson

Former defender made quip following Van Gaal's bizarre revelation ahead of tonight's Europa League match with Midtjylland

Louis van Gaal with Juan Mata (GETTY IMAGES)

Rio Ferdinand made a quip last night about the very different styles between Louis van Gaal and former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

It came following Van Gaal's bizarre use of language ahead of his team's Europa League tie against Midtjylland.

The Dutchman said he wanted his players to be "horny" as they seek to overturn their first-leg deficit against the Danish opponents.

“Desire, hunger and, a lot of times, I use the word ‘horny’,” Van Gaal said, seemingly searching for the Dutch translation of passion.

The comment was brought up by BT Sport host Gary Lineker during last night's coverage of Manchester City's win over Dinamo Kiev.

Lineker joked that Van Gaal had "taken sexy football to an entirely different level with that one," to which Ferdinand replied: "That's the complete opposite to Fergie - he never wanted us horny like that!"

Manchester United's match with Midtjylland kicks off at Old Trafford at 8.05pm tonight.