We asked fans how they were feeling following Saints' agonising defeat to Manchester United in the EFL Cup final.

Brian Harding, 52, a forklift driver from Millbrook, said: “The better team lost. We were all over them, and should have smashed them. I am gutted about the goal that was disallowed – it was definitely onside and should have counted.”

Steve Figgins, 62, a gym instructor from Redbridge, said: “I am gutted we lost today, but I thought we played a very good cup final. I attended the cup final match against Man Utd in 1976, and I thought the team that played today played better than we did then, so it makes today’s defeat a bitter pill to swallow.”

Mike Russ, 43, a bar worker from Portswood, said: “I think we did very well but unfortunately, they got the better of us in the last minute. We came back from 2-0 down at least, but to be beaten at the death is gutting. I would have liked us to go all the way. Even though they lost, I still hope they get to parade in the city."

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Pat West, 59, a legal assistant from Millbrook: “I feel very proud. It was such a shame – we just needed that one more goal and we would have been there. The lads played well, and I am going to go home with pride. They did their best and the support was fantastic. You can see how much the city’s got behind the team.”

Bandy Smith, 50, a barber from Totton: “I am really proud. I am buzzing but I am gutted at the same time. We should have won the game, the first goal wasn’t offside. Emotionally, I am up and down. I feel really elated but at the same time, I feel deflated. It’s a really weird feeling. I would like to shake all the players’ hands – they ran through custard today and did all the work."

James Hankins, 20, a plumber from Marchwood, said: “I am proud of the lads – I think we played well. We should have gone 1-0 up, the referee made the wrong decision. The opposition just have that quality and players like Ibrahimovic, who can change the game. It was the first time since 1976 we had to win the trophy and we didn’t manage it. For me, the manager has to go now."