Boss: We Deserved More

Sir Alex Ferguson says United's performance against Benfica warranted more than a point following the Reds frustrating 2-2 draw in the UEFA Champions League.

The boss is certain his side deserved three points from Tuesday's chaotic match at Old Trafford, but remains confident of progression to the competition’s knockout stages.

“The goals we conceded were very disappointing - they were a bit freaky to be honest," Sir Alex lamented. "One was an own goal and the other was a bad kick out from David De Gea. The back pass could have been a little bit better, it wasn’t a bad back pass but David couldn’t really play it into the stands.

“But we played so well tonight, we made a lot of great chances and played some really good football. I have no problems with my players at all. But that’s the game, it’s a cruel one at times and it was cruel for us tonight.

“We had to get into our rhythm and tempo. We had a bad start by losing a goal after three or four minutes, which takes the steam out of you and the wind from of your sails. But once we got into the game we played really well and should have been two or three up by half-time.

“We kept on playing and creating chances in the second-half and I think we were very unfortunate not to win the game.We were missing a few players like Tom Cleverley, Chris Smalling has only just come back and Nemanja Vidic was suspended but the squad we’ve got is good enough, we’ve no complaints. That’s why we’ve got this squad and they proved themselves tonight and did really well.”

Tuesday’s point leaves United second in Group C and needing at least a draw against FC Basel on Matchday 6 to ensure progress to the last 16. And with Benfica ahead on goal difference, the Reds’ chances of finishing top of the pool appear to be over.

Sir Alex, however, remains bullish: “The chips are down for us but I have every confidence in my team. Obviously, Benfica should win at home and score a few goals against Galati so we have to win in good style.”