We cut our own throats, says Fergie after classy Kaka earns Milan rematch with Liverpool

United's attempts to join Liverpool in an historic all-English final never got off the ground as first-half goals from Kaka and Clarence Seedorf overturned their 3-2 first leg advantage.

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A late goal from Alberto Gilardino sealed Milan's 5-3 aggregate win and Ferguson said: "We should have seen out the first 20 minutes without cutting our throats.

"We lost two goals very easily and at this level you have to do better in defending these situations."

Milan will now look forward to gaining revenge for the dramatic penalty shoot-out defeat they suffered against Liverpool two years ago.

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said: "The Istanbul wound is still fresh in our hearts."

Ferguson's gamble on playing defender Nemanja Vidic backfired spectacularly as Milan set up a repeat of the 2005 final.

The United boss pulled no punches when he said: "I think we should have coped better with the start of the game. Keeping simple possession would have helped us.

"Milan were much sharper to the ball. They were pressing well and we have to give them credit for that. I'm disappointed because we have done so well to get here but we never came out of the blocks.

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"Milan were better prepared physically. They have been able to rest players and we have not. But I would still have expected more from my team."

United had high hopes of joining Liverpool in the May 23 final in Athens after turning a 2-1 deficit into a 3-2 victory at Old Trafford eight days ago.

But they suffered from defensive uncertainty last night and from the failure of star players Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo to perform to their potential.

Ronaldo was outshone by the brilliant Kaka while Milan's midfield guard-dog Gennaro Gattuso protected his back four like the world-class player he is.

Ferguson said: "Cristiano had a disappointing night and he knows that. We were up against experienced players. Milan are an example of where we have to go to."

Milan, who have never lost to United over two legs, also knocked them out of the competition in the semi-finals in 1958 and 1969.

They have now reached the European Cup Final 11 times and their coach Carlo Andelotti said: "The way we played the first half I think is the dream of every coach. We played perfectly."

United now travel across town to face neighbours Manchester City on Saturday. Victory for Ferguson's team and anything less than a win for Chelsea at Arsenal on Sunday would hand United the Premiership title but Ferguson is unhappy about the lunchtime kick-off.

Ferguson said: "The Premier League have not helped us with Saturday's fixture.

"Television were happy to have the game on the Sunday morning but they refused. They said the integrity of the competition is paramount.

"You can work out what integrity means whatever way you want but I think it was an unfair decision. Other countries help their clubs in Europe.

"But we have recovered from setbacks before and we will be ready for the game."