BAYERN SEES THE UNEXPECTED PART OF UNITED

The England international feels that Tuesday's result is "not too bad" and is hopeful of sneaking qualification for the Champions League semi-finals in Germany

Michael Carrick is upbeat over Manchester United's Champions League prospects following Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Bayern Munich in the first-leg of their quarter-final.

David Moyes's men were seen as underdogs against the defending champions but produced a valiant display to keep the tie in the balance, though Bayern hold a potentially crucial away goal after Bastian Schweinsteiger cancelled out Nemanja Vidic's opener.

The German midfielder was then sent off in the 90th minute for a second bookable offence following a foul on United striker Wayne Rooney and, despite the holders' away goal, Carrick is hopeful that United can seal progression in the return leg at the Allianz Arena on April 9.
He told the club's official website: "It would have been nicer if it was 1-0. It's obviously not ideal but it's not too bad.

"We are still in the tie and we have a chance going over there.

"It was a bit frustrating going in front and then conceding a bit of a soft goal but, overall, I think it was a pretty good performance.

"They are a good team and had the ball for long spells but I thought we defended well as a team and, on the counterattack, at times we looked dangerous.

"We knew it was going to be a tough night - it was never going to be easy - so to get the draw is probably a fair result.

"We are not getting carried away, we know the task ahead will be tough. We are going to have to be right at our best to get the right result over there.

"We still have a chance, we have to believe so we can go over there and be really positive." 

The second-choice left-back, who performed admirably in his duel with Arjen Robben, was delighted to be picked for the crunch clash and is confident his side can progress

Alexander Buttner is adamant that Manchester United can still reach the semi-finals of the Champions League - despite a 1-1 first-leg draw at home to Bayern Munich.

The Premier League titleholders took a surprise lead at Old Trafford despite watching Bayern dominate possession, with Nemanja Vidic converting Wayne Rooney's corner after 58 minutes.

Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised for the Bavarians nine minutes later, although Buttner has seen enough to convince him that United are capable of getting a positive result at Allianz Arena.

He told Sky Sports: "Of course we can do it. We always believe in ourselves. We had chances to score more goals and we have to focus on that. Defensively, we did well, we didn't give a lot away, just a goal, and I think we have a good chance.

"It was nice to play. For me it was my first big game and I think I did well. We know they can play good football and for myself I defended well against one of the best wingers. It's good to play a good game."

The left-back also denied that he deliberately handled the ball after Rafinha's blasted effort struck the former Vitesse star's arm.

He added to Dutch TV channel NOS: "I kept my arms together and didn't do it on purpose. I couldn't have done it any other way."

David de Gea, meanwhile, hailed United's support at Old Trafford and Tweeted: "Great atmosphere in Old Trafford!!! Thanks again for your incredible support! You're the best. Look forward to 2nd leg. #MUFC"