Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced his young players will improve further next season.

Ferguson pointed out the development of a number of players at the club as a reason for United supporters to look forward positively to next season.

He said: "Darren Fletcher has emerged from the shadows to become recognised as a really top footballer.

"Nani has come of age, Darron Gibson has had a good season and Jonny Evans has been fantastic for a 21-year-old while Antonio Valencia has done incredibly well in his first season.

"Behind them I have great faith in the futures of players like Danny Welbeck, Federico Macheda, Javier Hernandez, Gabriel Obertan, Mame Diouf and Chris Smalling.

"There is a great expectancy at Manchester United. I have no problem with that demand, but we should remember that when I arrived at Old Trafford, Liverpool were winning the championship on a regular basis while we had gone 20 years without the title. We changed all that.

"As for this season, taking everything into account, we are on the credit side.

"It has been something of a rollercoaster but then it usually is - losing twice to Chelsea certainly ranks as a huge disappointment.

"There have also been some outstanding achievements and thrilling matches."