Celtic hit by Berbatov brace at Old Trafford

Celtic were beaten 3-0 by impressive in-form holders Manchester United in their Champions League Group E match at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Gordon Strachan's side fell behind on the half hour when Dimitar Berbatov scored from close range despite appearing to be offside. The Bulgarian striker netted again early in the second half with the visitors again appealing in vain for offside. Wayne Rooney, who had an earlier effort disallowed, added a third for Sir Alex Ferguson's men with 15 minutes left.

Strachan said: "The two goals were offside but we were well beaten. We have played many great teams in Europe and I think that is the best. It will take some team to beat them."

In the other match in Group E, Villarreal overcame Danish outfit Aalborg 6-3 in an incredible contest in Spain. Celtic's next fixture is at home to Manchester United on November 5.