Manchester United v Schalke: Dimitar Berbatov and Co were far from 'so-called second XI', says Ralf Rangnick
Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to rest key players against Schalke may have represented a drop in standards to some, but Schalke coach Ralf Rangnick was not amongst them.
Net gains: Manuel Neuer endured a tough time between the sticks for Schalke Photo: ACTION IMAGES
By Telegraph staff 8:05AM BST 05 May 2011
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Two goals up from last week's first leg in Germany, Ferguson could afford to make eight changes from the side that lost at Arsenal on Sunday in order to keep his players fresh for the huge Premier League tussle with Chelsea on Sunday.
"If you look at their so-called second XI, Manchester United's quality stands out with Dimitar Berbatov, Anderson and their central defenders," Rangnick said.
"It shows that they are at an exceptional level.
"Most Bundesliga sides would be happy with that quality, possibly with the exception of Bayern Munich.
"It is difficult to predict the final. You see the quality of Barcelona. They have set the standard in Europe.
"But the final is at Wembley so that might give a slight advantage to United."
A slow start saw Schalke have the first half-chance of the night after only seven minutes, Jefferson Farfan sending a low shot fizzing just wide of the upright.
But once United settled into their rhythm, the writing was on the wall as Schalke's defence found themselves struggling to cope with the movement and speed of the home team's wide players, Valencia and Nani.
Rangnick added: "We have to admit we could have gone out in the quarter-final against Inter - (against United) we found out our level."
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