COLCHESTER United head coach John McGreal says being handed a plum Carabao Cup quarter-final tie at Manchester United is ‘immense’ for the club.

The U’s will travel to Old Trafford to take on the Premier League giants for a semi-final spot in December, following this morning’s draw.

Excitement is already at fever pitch among Colchester’s fanbase as they plan for one of the club’s biggest games in their history, which is likely to take place on Wednesday, December 18.

And after being paired against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side following the U's fourth-round win at Crawley Town, boss McGreal says it’s a wonderful game for everyone to look forward to.

McGreal said: “It’s immense for the club.

“I’ve had replies and texts saying how well the boys have done since we beat Crawley but since the draw has been made, it’s been unbelievable.

“It’s been a huge, huge reaction from friends, family, fans and people within the game that I know particularly well.

“It’s a huge reward for all of the hard work that we’ve put in, in the Carabao Cup.

“I am a big believer that if you put in the hard work, you get your rewards and it’s a fantastic reward for the club.

“They say Manchester United are on a par with Real Madrid as the biggest club in the world and for little old Colchester to draw them - I’m sure our fans will be absolutely delighted.

“The fans fully deserve it – I said that straight after the Crawley game.

“They turned up and it was like a home game for us.

“As much as I’m delighted for the chairman and for the club, the fans are a big part of it as well and let’s not forget the players, who have got us in this position.”

McGreal has graced the Old Trafford turf during his playing days and is already looking forward to managing a team at the Theatre of Dreams, when Colchester take on Manchester United.

“Old Trafford is a huge, huge stage,” said McGreal.

“I’ve been very fortunate in my football career to play there a couple of times.

“They call it the Theatre of Dreams and you can see what sort of stage it is.

“I think we’ve only got one or two players who have played there before – it’s Manchester United and it’s a world-renowned name.

“If we can’t enjoy this, we can’t enjoy anything in the game.

“I know it’s six weeks ago but I’m sure the fans will be trying to get their tickets in their droves and getting their travel arrangements.”