Brown's Euro dream

After missing out in 1999, Wes Brown admits he'd love to play in this season's European Cup Final.

Brown was an unused substitute at the Nou Camp nine years ago but hopes to go one better if the Reds reach Moscow this season.

Sir Alex's men took a giant leap towards that target on Wednesday night with a 1-0 win over AS Roma at Old Trafford (2-0 on aggregate).

"It was nervy at times but I think we controlled the game well," Brown told MUTV.

There was no nervier moment than the 30th minute when Daniele De Rossi stepped up to the penalty spot after Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo ruled Brown had illegally halted Roma winger Mancini.

"I touched the ball and got up and tried to carry on playing, but the referee gave the penalty and we had to get on with it."

To the delight of United's vocal support, De Rossi (the only Roma player to score in last season's 7-1 rout at Old Trafford) sent his kick high over the bar and into the Stretford End.

"If that penalty had gone in it would have made it a lot more difficult for us," Brown said.

"But all in all I think we played well and passed well. We deserved the win."

A Carlos Tevez header sealed victory and booked United's place in the Champions League semi-final. The Reds will meet Barcelona, with the first leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday 23 April.

"Carlos' goal settled everyone down and it was a real professional performance after that," Brown said. "We're through now and everyone's happy.

"Barcelona will be a difficult challenge but we're playing well as a team and I can't wait for those two games. A lot of the injured players are coming back now and the squad's in great shape.

"Last season [we played AC Milan in the semi-final] with loads of players out but now everyone's back and enjoying their football.

"I was in the 1999 squad for the final but unfortunately I didn't play. It would mean everything to get to a final and play."