Seven defenders started for United and left back Fabio da Silva, playing in midfield, opened the scoring before striker Wayne Rooney headed in another.

The Premier League leaders are on course for a treble, with Ferguson's side hosting Marseille in the Champions League on Tuesday.

While Arsenal only trail United by three points in the Premier League title race, Barcelona ended their European campaign and Birmingham beat them in the League Cup final.

Birmingham won't be returning to Wembley this season after losing 3-2 to Bolton in Saturday's other quarterfinal.