Twente took a slender advantage into the second leg after their 1-0 win in Marseille but were pegged back by a superb free-kick from Hatem Ben Arfa before going out 7-6 on spot-kicks.

"It's cruel to be eliminated like this," said McClaren. "Over two games we were without a doubt the better side.

"Also in this match we were the team that played to win. Alas, that wasn't enough to go on in Europe.

"Nevertheless, we have a wonderful campaign in Europe behind us. The guys can be proud, as am I."

McClaren hailed Ben Arfa's strike, adding: "It was a beautiful goal."

Striker Marko Arnautovic said: "We have to look forward now. It's a hard blow to be eliminated after two good games by penalties.

"But we are still in the KNVB Beker and are second in the Eredivisie. We have no time to dwell on this. We must focus on the next match. There still is a lot to win this season."