Rio Ferdinand concerned for United recruitment plans after Champions League blow

Rio Ferdinand believes a “disaster of a season” will result in Manchester United missing out on top targets after defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final saw their hopes of Champions League football disappear.

United, who sit 16th in the Premier League going into the final weekend, were beaten by Brennan Johnson’s first-half strike in Bilbao, and the loss will pile more pressure on head coach Ruben Amorim.

Ferdinand told TNT Sports: “It’s been a disaster of a season which has ended on a bad note but I don’t think they did enough to deserve it.

“I thought both teams looked scared to lose it.

“You can’t expect to win a trophy when you are playing a little bit reserved and conservative, you have to be brave in these moments. It’s going to be a long, long summer.

“That recruitment list they had will have to be scrapped now because they are not going to have Champions League football. It is a completely different list to recruit from.”

Tottenham ended their 17-year wait for a trophy, with boss Ange Postecoglou upholding his promise of “always winning something in his second season”.

“It’s amazing for the club, it’s been a long time coming,” former Spurs player Gareth Bale said.

“I’m delighted for the fans and after all these years the fans have waited they will celebrate this tonight.

“Now Ange goes down as a legendary manager to win this European cup. You will look back at this and see Tottenham winning the Europa League and won’t look at the league position.”

It remains to be seen whether the Australian’s future is in north London, with Spurs currently 17th in the Premier League.

“It’s down to the board, he’s proved he wins trophies. He promised to win a trophy and he has,” Bale added on Postecoglou’s future.

“If you are a Tottenham fan I’m sure you have a mixed opinion.

“Prior to the game I’m sure a lot of people wanted him out and now he has won a trophy I’m sure there will be a lot of confusion there.”