Fergie happy to stick by youth

Man United 1, Wolves 0
SIR Alex Ferguson has vowed to carry on giving youth a chance in the Carling Cup.

After winning the tournament last season with a squad based on youngsters, Ferguson sees no reason why United should abandon that philosophy this term.

Beating Wolves 1–0 at Old Trafford to book a fourth-round berth would have been able proof that the strategy is working. The fact Fabio was sent off for a professional foul, leaving United to complete the final hour with only 10 men just emphasised it.

“It does excite me that I can give the young lads a chance in this competition,” said Ferguson. “It is the only thing we can do.

“It is good for them to get the experience of playing at Old Trafford. It is a good breeding ground for young players.”

England Under–21 star Daniel Welbeck was the main beneficiary last night, netting a stylish winner midway through the second half after exchanging passes with Michael Owen.

The born and bred Mancunian featured in last year’s final, as well as the FA Cup semi–final defeat to Everton and is clearly making a positive impression on the Old Trafford hierarchy.

“It was a fantastic goal. The passing and the finish were top quality,” said Ferguson. “The angle Michael Owen created made it easy for him.”

Ferguson is now dreaming of a home tie with Peterborough, which would mean a match–up with son Darren, a former United player.