Few who witnessed last night's Champions League final will disagree that United were not just outplayed but out-thought by the magnificent Barcelona. Puyol's shenanigans at the back belied his years and kept the Reds attackers at bay all night, Iniesta flawlessly controlled the middle of the park and Messi was a colossus proving his credentials as the world's greatest despite where the Balon D'Or ended up in 2008.

The Scotsman bizarre choice of placing Rooney out wide was strangely reminiscent of England under Sven and Steve McClaren. This marginalised not just one of his best players but an attacker capable of leading the line in adversity. Moreover, United seemed listless and unmotivated, a cardinal sin for a game of such importance. Despite the poor performances of the players, fingers should rightly point to the manager who must be called to account for failing to prepare or drive his team on to the end of what was meant to be a legendary season.

The main stream media will almost certainly exonerate Ferguson. It was after all one game. Why flagellate such a great man after everything else he's achieved? But the fact remains that Fergie and his players let themselves down just as they were about to make history and win back to back Champions League Trophies.Fergie himself was poised to match Bob Paisley's European Cup record of three victories. That target now seems a million years away.

Perhaps it's time for a rethink. There is no question that Ferguson has much to offer but does he possess enough drive to push United on, defend the Premier League and regain the Champions League? Is it perhaps time for him to ask himself that question and if there is any doubt in his mind, start making arrangements for a successor?