Sir Alex Ferguson had said that he is looking forward to facing Ajax for the first time in his managerial career.

After crashing out of the Champions League last week, Manchester United have been drawn against the Dutch giants in the last 32 of the Europa League.

The Scottish manager had initially described dropping into the competition as a "penalty", but later suggested he had been misunderstood.

"I have never played them before in competitive football in my managerial career. They are a good team and we are looking forward to it," said Ferguson.

United defender Chris Smalling has echoed Ferguson's sentiments after the draw.

"[Exiting the Champions League] was a massive disappointment, but then you look at the calibre of teams that are in there (Europa League)," said Smalling.

"We have drawn Ajax, they have a lot of history. That will be a good test.

"If you are in there, a lot of the teams will be kicking on. Whoever wins the competition will be a good team."

The first leg of the tie will be at the Amsterdam Arena on February 16.