Focus On... Vidic

When Sunderland came to Old Trafford in December, it was Nemanja Vidic who proved the unlikely hero, slotting home an injury-time winner to sink the stubborn Black Cats.

The Serbian centre-half later admitted it was his most important goal in a United shirt. He's scored a few, too. In fact, Vida has already found the net six times this season, even though his main duties still revolve around stopping goals.

And there’s no questioning his ability in that department. Last week he was awarded the prestigious Barclays Player of the Month award for January, which would have come as no surprise to United legend Gary Pallister.

"When Nemanja first came to England it might have been a bit of a culture shock, and the tenacity of the Premier League took some getting used to,” Pallister told official matchday programme United Review recently .

“But he’s grasped the nettle, and proven himself a top-class centre half."

Nemanja’s partnership with Rio Ferdinand in the heart of the Reds' defence has been likened to the watertight Pallister/Bruce pairing on more than one occasion, and even Pally can’t ignore the similarities.

"Rio and Vida are different types of defenders, just as me and Steve were, but they gel so well. Ferdinand’s the classic, cultured defender who’s good on the ball, while Nemanja relishes a physical challenge, is uncompromising in the tackle and aggressive in the air.

"Vidic is the steel at the heart of the defence. He’ll throw his head into areas others won’t, and has the sort of battling qualities Steve Bruce had."

Pallister is quick to point out, too, that despite Vidic’s bravery, the 27-year-old’s game is not simply based on his strength.

"He’s more than just a tackler," he says. "You don’t play for United if that’s all you’re about. You also need to be able to read the game well and be comfortable playing football out of defence."

And while Nemanja’s skill on the ball is not as silky as Rio’s, he’s still handy. Vida’s also developed a great understanding with his keeper, Edwin van der Sar, which can’t be underestimated."

His contribution at the other end hasn’t gone unnoticed, either. And again, Pally finds it hard not to draw comparisons to his former team-mate: “Vida chips in with some vital goals, just like Brucey did.

"When Nemanja goes forward, he only has eyes for the ball and doesn’t let anybody get in his way. He attacks the ball so well and it’s no surprise he gets himself on the scoresheet from time to time."

Vida may not have any obvious weaknesses, but Pallister stresses players at Old Trafford can never afford to become complacent – the battle for starting berths is as fierce as it has ever been.

"There’s always somebody willing to take your place,” he warns. “That’s why the club is so successful."