Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that the Red Devils are approaching the same level of success as Barcelona.

The North West side have been second best in the two clubs' previous meetings, with the Spanish giants claiming the Champions League trophy over them twice in two years.

"[Catching Barcelona is] always going to be the challenge," The Mirror quotes Ferguson as saying. "We've introduced some young players to the club this season who have tremendous ability and a great energy and spirit about them.

"So I think we're making great strides towards that level Barcelona have reached these past two or three years."

United defender Nemanja Vidic was sent off in the Premier League champions' 2-0 victory over Otelul Galati in the Champions League last night.