Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted his youngsters will not be ‘hounded’ out of the club following their midweek failure to progress to the last 16 of the Champions League.
The Red Devils slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Swiss side Basel on Wednesday, and will now feature in the Europa League, a stark contrast to last season’s Champions League runners-up position.
The Scot refused to condemn his players, however, and insisted those coming under fire represent the future at Old Trafford.
Ferguson told reporters: “These young players have already achieved many things.
“Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck have all played for their country. These will be the foundation of the club in a few years’ time, there is no question about that.
“These young players got a nasty experience on Wednesday but they know they have the trust of myself and their coaches.
“They will not be hounded because of one bad performance. Time will prove us right.”
Ferguson will be looking for a response from his youngsters after the ignominious exit when the injury-stricken side prepare to face Wolves on Saturday.
Club captain Nemanja Vidic was ruled out for the season on Friday with knee ligament damage.
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