SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, Nov 7 (SW) - Title defenders Manchester United have been knocked out of the Carling Cup by Championship strugglers Southend, who advance to the quarter finals.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had announced to field a strong squad, and players as Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney indeed appeared in the starting line-up.

But it failed to pay off for the Red Devils, as Freddy Eastwood put the home side in the lead after 25 minutes. David Jones fouled Jamal Campbell-Ryce and Eastwood scored from the following free kick.

Minutes later, the guests came close to correcting things but David Jones' strike from about 23 meters hit the post.

Southend held on to their small lead to knock out the holders, who had already been close to elimination in the previous round when Crewe Alexandra were beaten 1-2 in extra time.

In previous rounds, Southend defeated Brighton and Leeds United and the team, last placed in the Championship, now advances to the quarter finals.