Reds aiming for Europe
Premier League title success capped off an excellent campaign for
the Reds last term, but the signings of Owen Hargreaves, Nani and
Anderson indicate that the semi final exit in the Champions League
hurt Sir Alex Ferguson.
The United boss admitted as much at the press conference to unveil
Nani and Hargreaves on Monday, saying: "Last year was the third
time we have failed in a semi-final, and we don't like that. We
should be doing better.
Having beaten AC Milan 3-2 at Old Trafford, the Reds hampered by
a spate of injuries looked out of steam in the return leg at the
San Siro, going down 3-0 to the eventual winners.
That was maybe the downfall last season, said Sir Alex. When it
came to the final two months of the season we didnt have the squad
to deal with all the competitions we were in.
Signing Hargreaves, Nani and Anderson does give us a better
chance. It brings us quality and experience of Europe, and good
intensity in our play. I am very hopeful we can do better."
That doesnt mean that United are solely focused on Europe.
Retaining the league title, which would put the Reds one
championship win behind Liverpools record, remains high on the
list of priorities.
"We have said this time and time again, were forced to challenge
for the Premier League because its such a competitive league and
such a tribal situation. It is like a tribal war," he added. "But,
without question, in terms of the profile of our club, and I have
said it many times, we should have done better in Europe.