Giggs backs United youth to come good against Barca

Ryan Giggs believes Sir Alex Ferguson's trust in youth will be the key to Manchester United's bid to defeat Barcelona and claim a place in the Champions League final.

The veteran Welsh winger insists the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, Nani and Anderson in United's squad has been a major factor in their march to the last four in Europe and the top of the English Premier League.

And far from attempting to control the exuberance during the final, decisive stages of the season, Giggs is convinced the presence of so many skilful young players can give United a crucial edge.

“We've been so successful this season because of the enthusiasm and energy they got,” Giggs said.

“It has been infectious. It has carried on through the team. That is the kind of enthusiasm that these sort of players bring to the team. You don't really calm them down.

“We've got a good mix of experience and youth. The experienced players use the experience they have got, we've got many players who have played in big European games plus players who nearly got to the final last season and want to make amends by getting there this season.

“So we're not going to try to calm them down in the important games. You want them to go out and perform to their best abilities as they have been doing all season.”

Tuesday's meeting with Barcelona at Old Trafford marks Giggs' fifth European Cup semi-final – as well as his 103rd Champions League appearance – and the 34-year-old is determined to make the most of his latest chance to reach the final of the continent's premier club football competition.

“A European Cup semi-final at Old Trafford, you've got to enjoy these games,” he said with the tie all square after a goalless first leg in Spain.

“This is why you became a footballer,” Giggs, a member of the United side that beat Bayern Munich in the 1999 Champions League final, added.

“These games don't come round too often so make sure you go out and make sure you make the most of it. I'm sure they will because every player is looking forward to it. It is a massive game and we will be up for it.”