UEFA president Michel Platini has hit back at Manchester United’s boss Sir Alex Ferguson for his criticism of the Europa League, insisting the English champions should be grateful to be involved.

 

Ferguson had described the Red Devils dropping into the competition after finishing third in their Champions League group as "punishment" for failing to perform as expected in Europe’s blue ribbon tournament.

 

And Platini was disappointed to hear the legendary manager play down the Europa League’s importance.

 

"The world does not revolve around England", said Platini with a smile.

 

"I love England, the football is great and their supporters are wonderful", added the Frenchman, "but don’t now criticise the Europa League because they played three Champions League finals."

 

And Platini insists that Manchester United should be grateful to play in the Europa League as many sides would love to have their place but are not able to.

 

"The Europa League is a wonderful event.

 

"I know that Ferguson would have preferred to play in the Champions League, but a lot of clubs want to play in it and don’t have that opportunity."

 

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