WHAT'S THE PROBLEM?

Ferguson:

“Apart from the semi-final and final last season, we have always given young players a chance in this competition. No-one likes to lose games but it is important to find out about some of the players we have got at Old Trafford.

“These lads have been working hard in training and we wanted to recognise that. It is a gamble but it's one I am prepared to take and in the main, it was worth it.

“Phil Bardsley was outstanding. He showed a terrific attitude. Gary Neville had the same approach when he came into the team. He kept running up and down the touchline and never gave in. He has been playing centre-half for the reserve team, so this was a big test for him but he came through it impressively.

“Kleberson showed us what a terrific footballer we all know him to be. He is starting to take his training ground form into games now and that is one of the big plusses from this game. He has terrific feet and creates excellent angles for other people with his passes. He is producing on the pitch what he does in training and proving what an outstanding player we all know him to be.

“Nicky Butt needed a game, David Bellion will get better and better the more we play him. I played Ronaldo because I didn't use him on Sunday and we tried him in a different position tonight. These players need games - Roy Carroll doesn't get enough football either.

“In the main we controlled the match but they are dangerous when they get into the last third. You're always in the game at 1-0 down but the second goal - with the experience West Brom have got - meant it would have been difficult to beat them after that.”

Ex-Div Gary Megson:

“If you look at their midfield it wasn't too bad, was it? Nicky Butt is an England player, Kleberson is a World Cup winner and Cristiano Ronaldo cost £12million. Everyone wanted to play in this one and everyone was up for it but we have to make sure we have something left in the tank for our league games."