2Erik ten Hag has opened up on his dinner date with Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty

2The legendary former boss ate out with the current manager last nightCredit: Red Issue

The two powerhouses will collide again in the Europa league at Old Trafford on Thursday to determine who will advance to the knockout stages.

United boss Ten Hag appears to be leaving no stone unturned with his planning to down Barca.

We showed earlier how he had a team consisting of eight analysts working at the game in Spain to uncover more clues on how to defeat Xavi’s side.

Then the Dutchman was spotted having a meeting with legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of the huge clash.

SunSport exclusively revealed that the pair of them were seen deep in conversation over dinner in Cibo restaurant in Wilmslow on Tuesday night.

Talking today about his meal with Fergie, Ten Hag said: “It is massive (to have his support).

“I enjoy to speak with people with massive knowledge and experience of it.”

Sir Alex is a huge admirer of Ten Hag and what he has done for the club since taking charge in the summer.

The United manager is currently steering the Red Devils to trophy chances on four fronts.

Ten Hag has United in the title race, the fifth round of the FA Cup, and they take on Newcastle in the final of the Carabao Cup on Sunday in search of their first trophy since 2017.

But first up comes the challenge of Barcelona, and Sir Alex, who won United the treble in 1999, was clearly happy to share his wisdom.

Ten Hag added: ““He wants to share it, he wants to help and support. Manchester United is his club and he feels so committed.

“He wants us to be doing well. It was a great night.”