Michael Carrick has revealed Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson called together his squad for crisis talks after their Champions League exit.

The message to his shell-shocked troops was simple - failure is not an option for anyone chosen to wear the famous red shirt.

"He sat down with us the other day, quietly," Carrick explained.

"There was no rant, he just put things into perspective, reminded us what we're here for and what the club is about.

"It wasn't a rant or anything like that, it was a simple talk, but the way he does it is like no-one else. It really grabs the attention.

"You could sense the whole room taking in everything he was saying and really wanting to pull together and be prepared for what's ahead.

"It's always been the same - we have to be in contention when it matters.

"He's always had a good response from us in the past and I'm sure he will get one between now and Christmas. That's definitely our aim."