Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson wants three of the four Champions League semifinal places taken by English clubs.

He said: "Hopefully, we will get through to meet Barcelona in the final - and what an unbelievable match that would be.

"Hopefully, we will have three English clubs in the semi-finals, a situation that again reflects the quality of our Premier League.

"I've got to say, though, I am glad we are in the section of the draw that keeps us away from Barcelona. The Spanish team represent the biggest threat in the competition.

"They had a wobble a few weeks ago but have picked up again and are in terrific form at just the right time.

"Their first-half performance against Lyon, when they won 5-2 at the Nou Camp, was brilliant.

"They are rightly one of the favourites to win the competition."