Sir Alex Ferguson is regarded as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, football manager of all time.
The Scot brought heaps of success to United during his tenure as the Red Devils boss, but as he was known for his hairdryer treatment, mind games and 'Fergie time' let's not forget that he also capable of causing upsets with a relatively average starting 11.
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Just four years removed from a Champions League final with arguably the most talented squad on paper featuring Cafu, Maldini, and Kaka among others AC Milan lined up against Manchester United in the Champions League Round of 16 in December 2009.
Some legendary players from that final remained, including Nesta, Pirlo, Inzaghi, Seedorf and Gattuso yet an overhauled squad that featured Ronaldinho, Beckham and rising star Pato was no match for Rooney, Scholes and Park.
United took the advantage in the first leg, away at the San Siro an equaliser from Scholes and brace from Rooney secured a 3-2 win.
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Yet, it was when Milan came to Old Trafford for the second leg that they really opened up as United were in charge for most of the game and eased past The Rossoneri 4-0, a convincing 7-2 win on aggregate.
This would not be the last time that Ferguson caused an upset with a weaker side.
in 2011 United beat Arsenal 2-0 with a starting 11 featuring seven defenders... Rafael, Fabio and O'Shea joined Gibson in midfield while Brown, Smalling, Vidić, and Evra completed the back four.
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Master technician or madman?
Let us know in the comments.
Words by George Buksmann.
Topics: Football News, Football, Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson, AC Milan, Champions League
