That Champions League win was Ferguson's second European triumph at United following the Cup Winners' Cup success in 1991.

And as well as denting Chelsea's current domestic dominance, more success in Europe fires Ferguson and his new look side with Wayne Rooney leading a new-look team.

A return of one win and one final appearance from 10 successive seasons in the world's top club competition is on a par with Porto, Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool.

Ajax and Valencia have reached more finals in the last 12 years and Ferguson's exacting standards demand more: "We should have done better and I think we can."