Fergie relieved after shaky show

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson conceded a lack of experience almost condemned his side to an embarrassing Europa League exit at Old Trafford last night.

With their last–32 tie with Ajax virtually wrapped up in Amsterdam last week, Ferguson fielded a youthful line–up.

But despite Javier Hernandez scoring for the fourth consecutive game, United failed to build on their advantage and Ajax goals either side of the interval completed a 2–1 win for the Dutch giants that left them just a goal away from advancing to a meeting with Athletic Bilbao.

Neighbours and fellow Europa League hopefuls Manchester City will take on Sporting Lisbon.

"It was a nervy night," said Ferguson.

"I thought with a 2–0 lead it was a great opportunity to give Chris Smalling and Phil Jones a game because they have been out for such a long time.

"They have great potential but the lack of experience in terms of tying up the game created a problem for us.”

Ferguson admitted he bore responsibility and, on the plus side, Jones, Smalling and Tom Cleverley – all watched by Stuart Pearce who has named the trio in his England squad to face Holland at Wembley next week – gained valuable match practice after significant lay–offs which should help United.

However, Ferguson knows his side will have to improve if they are to overcome their next opponents.

"The experienced players will play in that one," said Ferguson.

The United boss also confirmed Wayne Rooney remains a doubt for Sunday's trip to Norwich City as he struggles to shake off a throat infection.