Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is absolutely positive that his team will step up their game against AC Milan.
The Champions League first leg tie was the first time in five tries that United managed to beat Milan on their home turf.
Sir Alex believes that now the hoodoo has been broken and his team has gained an importnat edge over their Italian rivals.
In comments reported by the Daily Mirror, Ferguson said: "It was a big thing for us to win in Milan. It was the first time in four attempts that we'd done it.
"I was delighted with it because, historically, we were playing against one of the best European teams of all-time.
"Without doubt, it was a landmark victory for us. I can't help but think it was a really, really important win for us. It was a psychological thing going there and winning.
"European football is an ever-changing process. A few years ago the Italians were not as good as the Spaniards, but they're better now.
"There has been a little shift and the Italian teams are better this year. That's why winning in Milan was a big step forward for us.
"We were well beaten when we lost 3-0 in the second leg of the semi-finals back in 2007. But our preparation wasn't good.
"We rested players on Saturday and we're much better prepared. You can talk all you like but I back my team to produce - and they will produce."
Ferguson also revealed that it was United's attacking instinct that allowed Milan a way back into the tie. The Red Devils were leading 3-1 deep into the second half and had things stayed this way, the Rossoneri's chances of progressing would have evaporated.
However, United went forward in search of a fourth, which allowed Milan striker Clarence Seedorf to get one back for his team just before full time.
"We have to have a positive attitude," said Fergie. "That's the nature of our club. But sometimes we can make games more exciting than they need be.
"For instance, when we were leading 3-1 we could have shut up shop but we still kept looking for that fourth goal.
"Sometimes we get the benefit, sometimes we don't, but the most important thing is that the philosophy is the right one.
"The first 15 minutes in the San Siro was the worst spell for us and the best spell for them.
"We could have been two or three down but once we recovered we played very well and should have killed the tie altogether.
"But goals change games and Clarence Seedorf's near the end, to make it 3-2, keeps the match on a tightrope"
The veteran manager also revealed that until the weekend, he had no hope of Rooney being fit in time for the Wednesday clash.
"I looked at Wayne on Friday and I didn't think he had any chance. But he's progressed and he'll play.
"On his form at the moment he would be a threat to anyone. That's what he'll be for us against Milan, a real threat up front."
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