Ferguson to stick with youth

Sir Alex Ferguson is determined to stick with his youngsters for next Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final against Manchester City.

The Manchester United manager has used the competition to give the less experienced members of his squad some much-needed experience in recent years and that trend has continued this term.

"I will stick with the principle of picking young players on Wednesday," said the United chief. "That is what we have done in the Carling Cup and we are not changing that."

The stance is bad news for Leeds, who head over the Pennines on Sunday to face United for the first time since 2004 knowing the champions will unleash all their big guns on them in the FA Cup.

It will not prevent 9,000 travelling fans helping to create a white-hot atmosphere that will be a new experience for Michael Carrick, who cannot wait.

"Experiencing those types of feisty atmospheres are why you play football," he said.

"Rivalries like that add extra spice. It is great for the fans and good for the players.

"No matter where you play, or whether the atmosphere is for or against you, it is a great feeling to play.

"Besiktas was very hostile when we went there earlier this season but it was still terrific to play in.

"Leeds are bringing a lot of fans and we are looking forward to it. It should be a cracking game."