Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson steamed into his young players after Wednesday night's humiliation at home by Coventry City.

The Daily Mail says he tore into his team after Michael Mifsud's double gave the Championship side a thoroughly deserved 2-0 win at Old Trafford, in particular those who have impressed out on loan only to flop when presented with their big chance at United.

So angry, in fact, that Phil Bardsley and Lee Martin - hauled off at half-time - were ordered to play for the reserves against Bolton last night.

It is believed that only John O'Shea, Gerard Pique and Anderson came away with any credit while a 'flabbergasted' Ferguson questioned whether his beaten side were fit to wear the famous red shirt.

Pique said: "Some people will think we've missed our chance, Looking up at the scoreboard at the final whistle and seeing 2-0 was a horrible feeling, especially when you're up against a Championship side at Old Trafford."