Reds' Italian test

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.

Unable to beat Coventry City in the Carling Cup earlier this season, United's youngsters will now be handed the task of toppling Italian giants AS Roma.

A number of first-team regulars are expected to be left behind when the Reds fly to Rome on Tuesday morning for the following night's Champions League group match, leaving room for some of Sir Alex's younger troops.

"There's no doubt we'll take some young kids," the manager told Manchester United Radio. "We've won the group and Roma are guaranteed second place, so there's no issue with us potentially affecting the outcome of the group.

"We wanted to give the young boys experience playing in the Carling Cup but they let themselves down against Coventry. Now there's a chance for the likes of Jonny Evans, Gerard Pique, Danny Simpson and Chris Eagles to elevate themselves. We know all about their ability but this is an opportunity for them to prove themselves.

"They won't be on their own, though. They'll have back-up from players like John O'Shea, Darren Fletcher, Michael Carrick, Louis Saha, Nani and Anderson. Cristiano Ronaldo might possibly be involved as well.

"We're not in the habit of sending teams out to lose. We'll be sending out a time that we think is good enough to win."