Cup Exit Will Affect United's Season

Amid the frustration of United’s controversial FA Cup quarter final exit to Portsmouth, Sir Alex Ferguson hopes a steely resolve and determination to clinch silverware in the league and in Europe will emerge.

A host of missed chances at Old Trafford ultimately led to the Reds’ downfall, although poor refereeing decisions held United back in a game that appeared set for nothing other than a home win.

The concern is that the defeat, and the circumstances that surrounded it, could affect the rest of United’s season. Conversely, Sir Alex hopes that is the case.

“It has to have an impact,” he said. “The impact is that we’re going to do something about it.

“There is a determination and energy from our team that will show itself now.”

United have the Premier League to fight for and a Champions League quarter final to come, and Sir Alex’s hope is that this defeat will galvanise his squad for the rest of the season.