McManus unbowed by United loss

Celtic skipper Stephen McManus is looking forward to playing Manchester United again in a fortnight despite the Hoops being brushed aside in their Champions League Group E clash at Old Trafford last night.

United showed why they are current holders of the trophy with an impressive display against the Parkhead side in a 3-0 win that leaves the visitors bottom of the table with one point alongside Danish side Aalborg.

There was some doubt about the legitimacy of Dimitar Berbatov’s goals either side of half-time, which preceded Wayne Rooney’s strike – they both looked offside – but there was no doubt about the gulf in class between the two sides.

McManus, like the rest of the Celtic camp who emerged from Old Trafford looking resigned to a UEFA Cup spot at best, acknowledged the ability within the star-studded United side.

However, the Parkhead stopper insists he will not be cowed by the prospect of meeting them again on November 5 in Glasgow.

“We don’t like losing games but that’s how it goes sometimes, unfortunately,” the Scotland star said.

“But the defeat has not dented our confidence.

“They were brilliant. They are probably the best side we’ve played against.

“They are the best side in Europe and it was a test for us and a great experience.

“You want to play against the top sides.

It doesn’t matter whether you win, lose or draw, as long as you look forward to these games.“