Tired Reds ‘lucky’ to earn replay

SIR Alex Ferguson has admitted Manchester United are lucky to still be in the FA Cup.

United swept into an early two–goal lead against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge yesterday only to crumble after the interval.

Eden Hazard and Ramires pulled the visitors level and only a crucial late save from David de Gea kept United in the competition, even if they now face a trip to Stamford Bridge

"We ran out of legs. We kept giving the ball away,” said Sir Alex. "The emotion and intensity of Tuesday night had taken its toll on one or two of the players.”

Wayne Rooney went on to follow Javier Hernandez's early effort by curling home a free–kick which Petr Cech had expected to be cleared.

At that point United seemed to be cruising.

But a couple of missed chances gave the visitors' hope and Chelsea looked more likely winners at the end.

No date has been set for the replay, though should Chelsea progress in the Europa League this week, it will inevitably mean the Londoners facing four games in eight or nine days - or the postponement of Premier League games, one the Manchester derby.

The Football Association is expected to offer an update today.