Queiroz stands firm over cup team selection

Carlos Queiroz insists one trophyless campaign will not be enough for Manchester United to abandon their established policy of using the Carling Cup as a breeding ground for young talent.

The Red Devils entertain Barnet at Old Trafford tonight with memories of their stunning FA Cup draw with non-league Exeter 10 months ago still fresh in the mind.

Many pundits felt the prospect of further embarrassment at the Coca-Cola League Two Londoners hands, plus the failure to land any silverware last term, would see Alex Ferguson field a stronger side than would normally be expected for this stage of the competition.

But his assistant Queiroz confirmed tonight’s starting line-up will include its usual combination of fringe players, recovering first-teamers and fresh faces, with up to four pencilled in for their starting debuts.

“Every competition is important to us but we will not compromise our strategic approach to this one just because we didn’t do well last season,” outlined Queiroz.

“We want to win the trophy but we also have a responsibility to develop young players.”