Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has defended his decision to field a much-weakened side in Wednesday night's Carling Cup defeat at West Brom.
Only John O'Shea retained his place from Sunday's defeat at Chelsea, but young Irish international was suddenly playing the veteran role, marshalling the likes of Phil Bardsley, Paul Tierney and Danny Pugh.
The lack of experience was evident as the Baggies dominated the first half. They opened the scoring through a wonderful volley from Bernt Haas and would have doubled their lead but for an excellent penalty save from the impressive Roy Carroll, defying much-coveted midfielder Jason Koumas.
Despite United dominating the second half with Kleberson pulling the strings, WBA made it 2-0 when substitute Scott Dobie stooped low to plant a header past Carroll. Ferguson's men always looked classy on the ball, but they couldn't cope with West Brom's sheer physical presence.
However, the United boss remained defiant over his team selection: "Apart from the semi-final and final last season, we have always given young players a chance in this competition," he said. "No-one likes to lose games but it is important to find out about some of the players we have got at Old Trafford.
"These lads have been working hard in training and we wanted to recognise that. It is a gamble but it's one I am prepared to take and in the main, it was worth it.
"Phil Bardsley was outstanding and Kleberson showed us what a terrific footballer we all know him to be. He is starting to take his training ground form into games now and that is one of the big plusses from this game."
The Baggies' victory shouldn't be underestimated as despite the under-strength United defence, they still had a midfield consisting of four internationals with Ronaldo, Butt and Fletcher alongside Kleberson. WBA boss Gary Megson was satisfied with his first division table-toppers.
"They still had world class players in their side and I knew it would take a good performance from us to beat them. I stressed the need not to put method above the result because the sole aim was to get into the next round. We achieved that aim but I never thought we were comfortable and we still have a lot to learn."
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