Manchester United finally disposed of Derby, 4-2 on the night, and 4-3 on aggregate to reach the Carling Cup final. Trailing 1-0 from the first leg United raced into a 3-0 lead within 34 minutes with goals from Nani, John O'Shea and Carlos Tevez.

But Derby battled back in the second half and gave themselves hope with a Giles Barnes penalty on 80 minutes, reducing the aggregate score to 3-2.

Then United earned their own spot kick when Tevez was brought down by the Derby keeper Roy Carroll and Ronaldo converted making it 4-1.

But Derby ensured The Reds endured a few nervy last few moments as substitute Barnes curled in a 20 yard free kick deep into stoppage time.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that he will be using his Manchester United youngsters again in the final after they secured his 14th domestic final appearance.

He told Sky Sports: "They will be playing in the final. I think that the important thing is to find out their temperament, and they've all proved that again.

"I think Wembley is a special place, our record in going to finals at Wembley is terrific.

"Just being there is always a great occasion, but you always want to win them because that's the only way you can enjoy it.

"Finals are always hard to get to and the young lads have done fantastic to be there. Great performance in the first half, absolutely brilliant."