As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Ferguson delighted to get through semi-final after Man Utd line-up changes

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he had some doubts regarding his starting line-up for tonight's Champions League semi-final against FC Schalke.

The Scottish tactician made a few key changes for the visit of the Germans, resting Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic among others.

But Ferguson's doubts were completely brushed aside as United hammered Schalke 4-1 at Old Trafford to win 6-1 on aggregate and book their spot in the May 28 final at Wembley Stadium where they will meet Barcelona.

"They did me proud," he told ITV1. "It was a semi-final and the fact it's such an important game does create a bit of doubt in your mind of 'Am I doing the right thing?' but I'm glad we were vindicated.

"It's fantastic for the club. We're where we want to be. I've said many times we should have done better in Europe over the years and I think this team can win the cup."

Ferguson made the changes with Sunday's Premier League blockbuster against Chelsea in mind. He wanted to ensure some of his stars were given time to get themselves 100% before they host the second-placed Blues who sit just three points behind them on the league table.

 Click here for the No1 coverage of all the gossip and transfer news around Manchester United.

Video of the day:

Andrew Slevison
About the author

Andrew Slevison

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free