Lack of creation hurts Leeds United as Owen and Giggs turn on style for Manchester United

Two goals from Michael Owen and a stunning strike by Ryan Giggs ensured it was the Red Devils who went through to the Carling Cup fourth round with a 3-0 win.

The game was all but over by half-time due to the trio of strikes. Grayson, who today expects to sign Danny Pugh from Stoke City on loan with a view to a permanent deal, said: “We didn’t do ourselves justice, especially in the first half.

“We were up against a world class team but we didn’t do what we are usually good at.

“We didn’t pass the ball enough and didn’t create enough chances. One or two individuals possibly got carried away with the occasion and didn’t do what they have done over the past two weeks.

“There is a gulf between us and them in terms of where we are and where we want to get to.

“But we can’t be too down about it. When you look at their team sheet, it is extremely strong and the key now is to learn from this experience.

“That team could have beaten a lot of Premier League teams, never mind a team who are 11th in the Championship.”

Leeds face a quick turnaround with Friday bringing a trip to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Grayson did not name Pugh when asked if he expected to strengthen his squad before taking on the Seagulls but the Yorkshire Post understands a deal has been struck with Stoke City over a transfer that could be worth as much as £500,000.

On his hopes of strengthening, Grayson said: “Hopefully, something will be done in the morning. He has played tonight and, hopefully, not got injured. It should be done in the morning.”

Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson paid tribute to Leeds for the manner in which they kept going after the break when already three goals behind.

“I thought we were terrific in the first half but, in fairness to Leeds, in the second half they kept trying and never gave in. The atmosphere is hostile here but our young ones coped well.”

n Full match report and pictures: Page 24.