Manchester United Into The Final: Paul Scholes Leads The Young Guns Onto Moscow

Can Manchester United finally banish the ghost of 1999 that has lingered every time they have come close to reaching a third European Cup final in the club's illustrious history?

Sir Alex Ferguson's team took a huge step to doing so last night by beating Spanish giants Barcelona in the semi final second leg at Old Trafford.

Although Barcelona had much more of the ball, they never seemed to threaten anywhere near enough to cause United's defence any problems.

And it had to be written in the stars, the storybook ending for United's long-serving midfielder, Paul Scholes.

The 33-year-old has had his critics this season—myself included—but he himself would probably admit those criticisms were, at times, justified. But last night he rolled back the years and scored a goal which has become synonymous with the name Paul Scholes.

Scholes missed the final in 1999 due to suspension and those who watch United on a regular basis will know that he is not especially renowned for his tackling. But age has forced him into a deeper role in the Man Utd midfield and it has taken him time to adapt.

But what a perfect time to complete the adaptation and score only his second goal of the season.

Sir Alex has guaranteed his midfield stalwart a place in the team for the final already. He is fully aware of how deserving Scholes is of performing in a European final before the end of his career.

Both will be hopeful that, now he has the chance on one of the biggest stages of them all, he will take it and be instrumental in winning Manchester United their third European Cup.

With a team full of exciting youngsters "Fergie" will be looking to the likes of Scholes as well as Ryan Giggs and Edwin van der Sar to show their experience and help the younger players on the big night.

It seems that the manager has a perfect blend of youthful exuberance and older, wiser players. An all English final speaks volumes for the quality of the football being played in the Premier League.