Rodgers: Don't Blame Rangel, Blame Me

Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers said he should be blamed for the defeat, not Angel Rangel who gifted United their first-half winner.

The Swans were punished for their reluctancy in clearing the ball up field deep in their own half. Rangel's attempted pass gifted Giggs with the chance to cross for Hernandez who had the easy task of netting from close range.

Rodgers also told BBC Sport that he thought his side were disappointing and in 'awe' of Manchester United in the first half, but vastly improved in the second.

"The blame is on me,"

"I ask the players to play. He could very easily have had a touch and smashed the ball up the pitch, but we look to play and pass our way out of trouble.

"We're learning how clinical teams are at this level. That is what happens and our players are learning that.

"Angel Rangel has been fantastic - there is certainly no fault on his part.

"There is no doubt the players felt the occasion, you have to remember some of my players have been playing in League Two.

"We re-organised at half-time and the biggest thing was our mentality changed.

"I'm very proud of the players, the second half showing was outstanding against a team of that quality. We stood off too much in the first half and United were too comfortable."

Rodgers also said how disappointed Sinclair was at missing a great chance to equalise in the first half:

"He's bitterly disappointed because that's a straightforward chance for him,"

"It was a simple volley into an empty goal from seven yards.

"The important thing is he keeps getting into those positions and I'm pleased with the ground he made up to get there in the first place."

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