The United manager said the team, who were led up to receive the European Cup by Sir Bobby Charlton, were inspired by the prospect of winning the trophy 50 years after the Munich air disaster.

Ferguson said: "We had a cause which was very important. People with causes are difficult to battle against and I think fate was playing its part. I feel very, very proud."

He added: "We're delighted. It's my first victory in a penalty shootout apart from the Charity Shield. I've lost three with Aberdeen and three with United so this is seventh time lucky.

"The slip by (John) Terry gave us an opening and I thought we would win it then.

"We were fantastic in the first half but the goal gave them an impetus and they were the better team in the second half. But in extra-time I think we were the better team. It was tight and there were some fantastic moments."

Ferguson, however, insisted that Edwin van der Sar's save from Nicolas Anelka's spot kick which sealed victory was one of the greatest moments of his career.

He said: "Sometimes you have to pinch yourself but I don't get carried away, euphoria evaporates immediately. But that penalty save from Edwin van der Sar was my moment, the emotion and the excitement and then you just carry on.

"When you win something, you have to look at the players eyes to see if the hunger is there. Defending the European Cup is not an easy thing to do.

"I think the team is good enough. They will improve next year. And (Paul) Scholes and (Ryan) Giggs will contribute, if not in as many games."