Patrice Evra included himself in a withering attack on Manchester United's failings in the Champions League and demanded the entire squad "look in the mirror" to work out the best way forward.
The three-time winners of Europe's elite club competition headed to Switzerland needing only a draw to get out of Group C but were beaten 2-1 by Basle and must now prepare for the come-down of competing in the Europa League. People looking at the Premier League betting odds will be wondering what sort of impact it will have on their domestic season.
The Premier League champions were the architects of their own downfall, with three draws – two at Old Trafford – ultimately costing them the chance to dine at Europe's top table again.
"We have to be honest and say we haven't been professional from the beginning of this competition," said France defender Evra.
"I don't know why."
He added: "Maybe one or two of us have to look in the mirror and say we can do a lot better than we have done. Everyone. And I am the first."
Sir Alex Ferguson's men must now concentrate on making a return to winning ways – starting on Saturday against Wolves.
United have gone five games unbeaten since the derby mauling by leaders and local rivals Manchester City but, worryingly, have not scored more than two goals in a Premier League game since a 2-0 home win against Norwich on October 1.
Match-going supporters have pointed to a lack of creativity in central midfield but Evra refused to go into specifics.
He said there was still plenty to play for and refused to concede United's season was over following their Champions League exit and the football odds show they still have a great chance of winning trophies.
"We are Manchester United," he added. "We won't throw the season away.
"We still have things to win this season and we have to make sure we do that.
"We need to play with heart and the fans deserve more than us throwing away the Champions League and the Premier League."
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