Manchester United veto Europe's elite

Manchester United's loss to Basle is a victory for English self-interest. In fact, Sir Alex has played a blinder. Manchester United are not about serving the interests of Europe, they are about protecting their interests in the Barclays Premiership. Also, cosying up to Europe over the last few seasons has only ever resulted in a chastening experience from European types, unless United were allowed to stumble past (sic) John Terry's Cheslea.

Also, lets be clear. The other Enlgish teams celebrating are yet to realise the futility of their decision. The truth is rather simple. The competition is a series of results that will likely see a final featuring at least one of Barcelona or Madrid.

Arsenal - under French rule - have decided to remain on the inside of Europe rather than leave now. This is beecause they want to distract their fans. After all, what would happen if if their fans realised that they are part of nothing more than the most expensive library membership scheme in the world?! Better to ignore the fact that the Board owes the fans a heafty fine on a book called success. Indeed, I see that the Arsenal board has decided to build a statue of three rather curious characters outside the ground. Tony Adams as a statue. Don't know about you but I remember England Internationals well enough to not need a bronze version.

Then we have Chelsea. Lets face it, they are only celebrating as it offers respite from the concern that they may well just have spent more to sign AVB, than United did on Cristiano Ronaldo, for far less return. Lets face it, this game put a delay on AVB, rather like the port in Porto, being passed to the left of Stamford Bridge and sold down the River Thames.

Bitterness you cry? Absolutely. Unashamed I am too. And for those of you thinking I should be angry with my own club, rathert than Arsenal or Chelsea. You're right. But rather like Cameron's decision on Europe today, do you really think I am going to admit my mistake now? No chance....