Boss Salutes Budding Stars

Sir Alex Ferguson was not surprised to see his "great bunch" of young players defy the odds and secure a 1-0 victory over Hull City on the final day of the Barclays Premier League season.

With the title wrapped up and a Champions League final to focus on, much had been made of the United manager's team selection for the Reds' final league game at the KC Stadium.

As expected, Sir Alex opted to rest the majority of his big guns, preferring instead to give some of the Reds' budding young charges the chance to prove their worth. And not one let him down.

"It's just what I expected," he told MUTV. "There was a lot of speculation about what team I'd pick, but I was always confident the one I played would do well.

"We really do have a great bunch of young players and what they need is opportunities like today.

"Some of them have played in the League Cup and FA Cup this season which has been good for them and they showed the extra maturity they've gained in terms of being able to handle the type of game it was against Hull.

"They all played their part and hopefully a lot of them will get more chances next season."

Darron Gibson's fine strike on 24 minutes secured the three points and ensured a 28th win of the campaign, equalling a club record set during the 1999/00 title-winning season.

"It was a marvellous strike from Darron - it's something he's good at and one of his big qualities," added Sir Alex. "He's got terrific feet and great power and scored a great goal."

The Reds may have been without a number of first team regulars, but the United boss was keen to pay tribute to every member of his squad after the final day victory.

"All the players have been brilliant and it's been an exceptional season by anyone's standards, especially when you think of the competition within the Premier League today," he beamed. "We're all delighted."