"When Manchester United are not fighting for the Premiership or the Champions League, the players, the staff and the fans are not happy.
"But there were three major plus points to take from the season. Winning the Carling Cup was important, finishing second was vital to qualify for the Champions League because we didn't want to damage our preparations for next season, especially with our players playing in the World Cup.
"And thirdly, we needed to make sure that our foundations for a great and winning team continue. We wanted the team to develop, become stronger and more consistent. In that respect the season was not a failure."