Following United’s League Cup exit at the hands of Crystal Palace, Sir Alex Ferguson has apologised to the fans.

Despite the winning goal being scored from an offside position, the fans would have expected more from the players who started, even though they weren’t the first XI.

“I’m so disappointed,” said Ferguson. “I have to apologise to my fans and all the players who weren’t playing. We never expected that. Any time we go on the pitch it means a lot to Manchester United. We have our pride to protect and our history to protect. Every time we walk on the pitch it’s important. We didn’t see that tonight. Nine internationals out there. So that was a big disappointment.”