Manchester United are not the greatest club side ever, according to News Online users.

60% of those who responded believed that this United side could not be considered the best side ever, citing teams such as Real Madrid, Liverpool and ironically the side they beat to complete the treble, Bayern Munich, as superior sides.

While many were keen to applaud the achievements of Alex Ferguson's side during the season and the decade, they were also determined to keep a sense of perspective.

"As a Utd supporter I am over the moon that we have won the treble, and we have not had an easy run in either the FA cup or the Champions League. Best side in the world ever? NO, we are not even the best side in Europe in the 90's but we do have the potential to become the best side of the next decade," said Carl Sixsmith.

Insult

"It goes without saying the Man U are the best team in England at the moment. However, it is an insult to the Man U Liverpool and Leeds teams of the 60's and 70's to say that this team is better than them," said Mike Mcilroy.

"The AC Milan team of 1989 (Gullit, van Basten, Rijkaard) remain the greatest club side of all time," said David Wake.

But there were also those who felt that United's unbeaten run since the turn of the year, combined with their attractive style of play, made them worthy holders of the unofficial title of team of the century.

"With out a shadow of a doubt, United won it with style, panache and flourish. The standard of European opposition nowadays is far greater then in the 70s and 80s when the Europeans had no answer to the physical game played by the English teams," said Sunit K Joshi in the USA

Jealous

"You don't go 33 matches unbeaten being 'lucky' all the time. As usual we have the jealous collection of Scousers, Gooners and City fans. Look in your trophy cabinets fellas!!" said John Gregory, presumably not the one who manages Aston Villa.

There was no shortage of replies when News Online asked why people hated United, and the same sentiment crept out at the asking of this question.

"Yes they are a good football team but greatness is measured in other things such as magnanimity and acceptance of other. Greatness does not embrace arrogance and whinging at referees," said Mike Race.

But the final word goes to Mike in Hong Kong, who certainly has an original answer.

"Sheffield United in 1898 were much better - prove me wrong."