Rafael da Silva's sending-off against Bayern Munich, which ultimately cost Manchester United the chance of a Champions League semi-final place, showed there is no substitute for experience.
Freshness over tired limbs was the selection criteria but it backfired as Rafael's immaturity saw him pick up two needless bookings and a red card which left 10-man United up against it.
Neville may have looked jaded in his recent games, but it is unlikely a defender of his stature and know-how would have got himself booked so cheaply on two occasions with such rash conduct.
Typically, Fergie chose to shift the blame for Rafael's sending-off, accusing Bayern's players of gamesmanship by surrounding the ref and, effectively, pressuring him into showing a crucial second yellow card - "typical Germans" the United boss said.
But Fergie should look closer to home to see where the real blame lies. Rafael has been at United for two full seasons now, along with his twin brother Fabio.
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