Ferguson: Man Utd always serious about Carling Cup

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists they're always serious about the Carling Cup, despite fielding inexperienced line-ups.

Ahead of their quarterfinal against Tottenham, Michael Owen will hope to be involved, while Dimitar Berbatov could be make his first appearance in the competition since scoring for Tottenham in their 2008 final victory over Chelsea.

However, Ferguson is committed to using the younger members of his squad.

And, as someone who was in the same situation himself not that long ago, Darren Fletcher has first-hand experience of the benefits now being gained by the stars of tomorrow.

"We don't dismiss the Carling Cup at all," he said. "It has been an important competition for the younger players and lads on the fringes of the squad for many years.

"Last year the lads went all the way to the final and won it. What a great achievement that was.

"For people like Ben Foster, Jonny Evans and Darron Gibson to win their first trophy provided them invaluable experience which will stay with them for the rest of their careers.

"We have so many games these players are an integral part of the squad.

"It is vitally important for them to go through the experiences they are getting just now because ultimately, it is going to make them better players."