Massive Games Ahead

United may have beaten Wigan Athletic 4-0 on Saturday afternoon, but Sir Alex’s men won't spend too long reveling in the victory.

Instead, Darren Fletcher says attentions will turn immediately to games against Chelsea and Liverpool in a week the Scot admits could prove pivotal in the title race.

“It’s a massive week,” he told MUTV. “We’ve already been away to Marseille and Wigan – we have four away games in a row – and now we’re down to two.

“We know it’s going to be difficult because Chelsea and Liverpool are two big rivals of Manchester United. But we’ll prepare mentally and physically for those games.”

On Saturday, the Reds weathered an early Wigan storm to lead at half-time before three goals in the final 16 minutes secured the three points. The scoreline, though, didn’t reflect the game’s true nature.

“It was a difficult game and we knew it would be,” Fletcher said. “Wigan play open, expansive football. They have a go at you and have a lot of pace in attacking areas. Edwin van der Sar had to make three fantastic saves in the first half to keep us in the game.

“We knew the longer the game went on our quality would shine through. We were endeavouring to get Chicharito in behind the defence so he could use his pace and that’s what happened.

“Wigan always attack, from the first minute to the last minute, and maybe that’s their downfall sometimes. But that’s the way their manager believes they should play and it means when you play against them you have to be wary at the back. But you also know that if you defend well then you can get chances on the counter-attack.”

The win sent the Reds four points clear of Arsenal, who don’t have a Premier League fixture this weekend due to their involvement in the Carling Cup final. It’s a position Fletcher’s delighted with, and he says the league title is now United’s to lose.

“There are 11 games left in the league and it’s in our hands. That’s all you can ask for at this stage of the season.

“You want to be up at the top of the league. When you’re behind you have to hope for other people to do you favours.”

Chelsea Start For Little Pea?

Javier Hernandez may have notched a double to help vanquish Wigan at the DW Stadium, but the young Mexican striker knows that’s no guarantee he’ll start on Tuesday night when the Reds meet Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Hernandez netted either side of half-time in United’s 4-0 win over Wigan before leaving the pitch on 77 minutes. But does Sir Alex’s decision to withdraw the no.14 hint at a possible starting berth on Tuesday night?

“I’m enjoying myself at the moment and I work hard,” Hernandez told MUTV. “But [whether I play against Chelsea] is a decision the manager has to make. If he gives me one minute or 90 minutes I want to do my best.

“Chelsea’s a really big game and we want to win. We’ll go there with a lot of confidence.”

Against Wigan, Hernadez opened the scoring on 17 minutes with a deft finish at the near post. He then doubled the scores with 16 minutes of the game remaining when he raced clear of the Wigan back four and kept his cool when faced with the onrushing Latics goalkeeper.

His strikes helped calm the nerves of United’s sizable travelling support after the home team had carved out the better chances and, for long periods, looked the better side.

“In both halves, Wigan put us under pressure,” Hernandez said. “We know they play very well. They like to play with the ball on the ground and we knew they’d be very motivated because they were playing Manchester United.

“[For my first goal], it was a good ball by Nani – I ran towards the first post and touched it over the goalkeeper.

“The second one, it was a wonderful pass from Wayne Rooney. When I received the ball I only wanted to score. That was the first thing that went through my mind.

“I’m very happy today but I’m happiest for the team. We’re on top of the league and we’re still in the Champions League and FA Cup. We want to win all three competitions.”

Boss Lauds Edwin

United may have fired four goals past Wigan on Saturday, but afterwards Sir Alex was keen to praise the contribution of Edwin van der Sar who kept the Reds in the game early on.

The Dutchman had to be alert to goalbound efforts from Victor Moses and James McCarthy in the opening stages of the game, before making a fingertip save from Maynor Figueroa soon after the restart.

Sir Alex was pleased with his side's second half performance, but was keen to point out that the Reds' owed a lot to their goalkeeper.

"His composure is just outstanding as is his organisation of the defenders," the boss told MUTV afterwards. "Wigan were terrific in the first 20 minutes and Van der Sar had to make some great saves, while Vida and Smalling had to keep sticking their heads in to clear things. It was an uncomfortable time for us.

"We played really well in the second half and had some fantastic opportunities. We opened them up time and time again and could have scored more. But I'm happy with 4-0."

Two of United's four goals came from Chicharito who has netted in all four of United's league victories away from home this season.

"The boy is doing fantastic," added Sir Alex. "They were two good finishes. If you watch the first one again he bends his run and spins across the defender to the front post to knock it in. He made a great run for the second and Wayne played him in nicely."

Man. United Thrash Wigan To Extend Lead

Bullish league leaders Manchester United tightened their grip on the title race after pushing aside Wigan to move four points clear of Arsenal.

Relegation-threatened Wigan shone early on but Edwin van der Sar stood solid.

Javier Hernandez cleverly clipped in rampant Nani's cross after 17 minutes as the visitors gradually took control.

Mexican striker Hernandez slotted a cool second 15 minutes from time before a Wayne Rooney tap-in, then substitute Fabio's free shot, added a late gloss.

Sir Alex Ferguson's team came into the match off the back of a disjointed goalless draw at Marseille, but added attacking cohesion to their characteristic defensive stubbornness against a Wigan team who did test them until the killer second goal from Hernandez.

And the confident display sets them up well for Tuesday's trip to Chelsea, with United now 15 points clear of the reigning champions.

Though Wigan sit second from bottom, they are not cut adrift from mid-table teams and can be hugely encouraged by their showing.

In the low Lancashire sunshine, they had United on the back foot immediately to force a succession of early corners.

The first clear opening came when Vidic uncharacteristically gave the ball away, but his recovery tackle on Charles N'Zogbia on the edge of his own area was perfect.

Going past men with ease, Nani showed first for a United team who had Hernandez partnering Rooney as regular first-choice forward Dimitar Berbatov sat on the bench.

A frustrated-looking Rooney elicited boos after charging into James McCarthy off the ball with what looked like a forearm.

Van der Sar soon came to sloppy United's rescue after a lazy Paul Scholes error.

Victor Moses pounced on the loose ball but, one-on-one, he could only steer his shot into the broad shoulders of the 40-year-old Dutchman.

But the first bit of real class from United, in the 17th minute, gave them the lead against the run of play.

Rooney made a lung-busting burst past Nani to exchange passes on the left wing with the erratic-but-gifted Portuguese winger.

He quickly whipped a fine low cross along the box which Hernandez - exhibiting his instinctive movement - moved towards before expertly slipping the ball round Ali Al Habsi into his near post.

Wigan did not fold and soon tested Van der Sar once more as he was forced into an outstanding point-blank save from McCarthy, who had been set up by Hugo Rodallega's skilful flick.

United came within millimetres of extending their lead on the half-hour when Darren Fletcher played a smart pass inside for Rooney, who did the same for Nani.

The winger - clearly comfortable with both feet - cracked a 15-yard left-foot shot past Al Habsi, but it cannoned back off the left upright.

With Scholes a continually classy presence and Vidic blocking shots and clearing crosses like a man possessed, United just managed to keep control of a feisty match.

But Steve Gohouri and McCarthy continued to link well on the right in the second half, while Van der Sar's hands were stung yet again just after half-time as Maynor Figueroa's fine long-range shot forced a decent high stop.

Nani soon slalomed into the box, riding tackles, but his shot was saved relatively comfortably.

With United pushing for a second to give them some breathing space, Hernandez fashioned a superb pull-back which Nani and Fletcher came close to connecting with.

Moses then did the same as Hernandez for Wigan - but Rodallega fired his snapshot well over the bar under pressure from United centre-back Chris Smalling, who again ensured that the absence of Rio Ferdinand was not noticed.

Ubiquitous Nani unleashed another shot which was spilled by Al Habsi, who then saved from Fletcher after Rooney had recycled the rebound.

United were rewarded for their growing pressure in the 75th minute when Hernandez, who is proving prolific in his first season in English football, flicked a high ball on for Rooney.

The England striker, still not fully back to his best form, gave a simple return ball as Hernandez nipped through Wigan's slumbering backline to slot a clinical low finish past Al Hasbi.

Ten minutes later Darron Gibson's long pass out of defence freed substitute Berbatov, and he unselfishly squared the ball across for Rooney to side-foot into an open net.

At the death, with Wigan well beaten, Fletcher's deep floated cross was controlled at the far post by Fabio as the Brazilian full-back clipped it inside the near post with his only contribution to the match.


Fabio ran towards the bench in search of brother Rafael after scoring his first ever United goal

Smalling Thrives On The Big Tests

Chris Smalling has been one of United's stand-out performers in recent games, but he is determined to prove he can become a first-choice regular.

The defender has proved a more than able deputy for Rio Ferdinand this term, but it's his displays in the win over Manchester City and the draw in Marseille that have shown beyond doubt he can handle the big occasion.

Smalling admits that he didn't expect to play quite so many important matches following a summer switch from Fulham, but he's developed a taste for it and now doesn't want to surrender his place.

"When you get the shirt and a position in the team you don't want to give it up," he said. "I understand that Rio is the main man and his are big shoes to fill. I just have to make sure whenever another opportunity arises I keep taking them.

"I know I will have to bide my time, but hopefully with these performances and the sort of games and massive occasions I have been playing in I can justify the manager's faith in me. Hopefully I get many more games because as each match passes I'm getting more confident and that will only help me improve."

The Reds are challenging in three competitions and Smalling says the players are well aware of the challenges but is confident United can produce the goods.

"It is a massive stage of the season for us," he says. "We've been at the top for a while now in the league and it's time to kick on and put a bit of space between us and the rest. As players you relish these big games. There's a real togetherness in the squad and hopefully we can kick on in every competition."

Boss: Win & We Are Through

United's inability to find a breakthrough at the Stade Velodrome left Sir Alex Ferguson frustrated at his team's creativity in the final third of the field.

Chris Smalling and Patrice Evra both caught the manager's eye in an unspectacular last 16 first-leg display, while a late foul on Wayne Rooney drew the manager's ire. But that perhaps highlights the lack of clear-cut chances and the Reds boss says United must improve back at Old Trafford next month.

"The game was disappointing to me. OK, the pitch was lively and Marseille made sure they weren't going to lose a goal," Sir Alex told ITV Sport. "[We expected more of the team], that goes without saying. We got into some good positions at times, but it wasn't enough.

"Nil-nil can can be [dangerous] if you lose a goal at home. For us it's about winning the game. If we win the game we're through. I think we have got a good chance. The referee was in a good position [to spot a foul on Rooney] at the end. I don't know why he didn't give us the free-kick. The decision after that is straight-forward. It's a red card."

That left Sir Alex with only performances in defence as a positive to take home to Manchester. "Patrice got a bit of abuse [on his first return after the World Cup], but that's to be expected. I don't think it affected his game. It was a very sound performance from Patrice. And Chris Smalling was excellent again. The boy is improving all the time. He wants to be a player and he likes defending. He gave a tremendous demonstration of centre-back play."

Carrick: We Must Do Better

Michael Carrick is confident United can reach the Champions League quarter-finals - provided the players improve on a below-par performance in France.

The midfielder admitted the Reds' retention and use of the ball was less than impressive, hence the absence of an away goal or even the sniff of one.

"We're pretty disappointed with the performance, it just didn't happen for us," said Carrick. "Our passing wasn't great so we didn't give ourselves the chance of creating chances in the game.

"We defended well as a unit, as we've managed to do quite a few times in Europe. The clean sheet gives us a good chance of winning the tie at home.

"We're confident we can do that but we'll have to play better than tonight. The other side of our game - our attacking and possession as a team - has got to be better."

United's hosts Olympique Marseille were themselves far from menacing, even in their own intimidating arena, but Carrick denied the notion they were there for the taking.

"It's unfair on Marseille to say this was a winnable game. Any game away from home in Europe is difficult but we didn't play anywhere near our best tonight and we know that. Hopefully we can put that right when we get them back to Old Trafford.

"It's a different game at home, our record is good there but we'll have to do better than tonight."

Smalling Left Feeling Dejected

Chris Smalling added another towering defensive display to an already impressive portfolio in his debut United campaign against Marseille on Wednesday, but so high are the standards he has set that the 0-0 draw at the Stade Velodrome brought with it a feeling of dejection.

Smalling was a pillar of strength alongside Nemanja Vidic, so much so that the absence of Rio Ferdinand through injury was barely felt. But the goalless stalemate against Didier Deschamps's team, which leaves no margin for error at Old Trafford in the return tie next month, was nevertheless a disappointment for the 21-year-old.

"It feels like we lost the game," Smalling told MUTV. "Everyone in the dressing room was a bit dejected."

However, the result hasn't dampened his enthusiasm. "I felt we could have done a bit more out there. But it's not over and we're confident to go back to Old Trafford and finish the job.

"We didn't test their goalkeeper enough. We were solid as a shape defensively and that was our foundation. It just didn't quite click; our passing was a bit off throughout the team. Hopefully we can finish the job, we've been quite immense at Old Trafford this season.

"As the game went on we started creating more chances. So that makes us confident going into the second leg. Our fans are brilliant and I think we'll be a bit too much for them, hopefully."

Smalling has risen to the challenge during Ferdinand's injury-enforced absence and he is relishing every opportunity he gets.

"It's going really well, I'm really enjoying it," he adds. "Hopefully the games keep coming. When I get my chance I want to do myself justice and reward the manager's faith in me.

"It's been really good to play in a variety of competitions. To come and play in an atmosphere at a stadium like [Stade Veledrome] was intimidating. I'd heard it was a great atmosphere and it's a great occasion for me to come and play in.

"Hopefully I get opportunities like that because as the season goes on the games get more important. In terms of learning, I can only gain from these games."

United Draw Blank In Marseille

Manchester United's last-16 Champions League tie against Marseille is delicately poised after an uninspiring goalless draw in the first leg.

Darren Fletcher had United's best chance but his 18-yard shot was gathered at the second attempt by the home side's goalkeeper Steve Mandanda.

It was a rare opening in a tight game of few chances.

Marseille's Andre Ayew dragged a shot across goal in the main threat to United at the Stade Velodrome.

There was little to separate the sides after a first leg in which both teams were more functional than flamboyant, and it was a game that could best be described as a sparring exercise ahead of what will be a decisive return leg on 15 March.

After failing to score in France, United will have to be wary of conceding an away goal at Old Trafford, although they can take confidence from a home record of 17 victories in 20 matches so far this season.

The two legs against Marseille are sandwiched either side of a run in which United will play at Wigan, Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League before a home tie against either Arsenal or Leyton Orient in the FA Cup.

It promises to be a defining period in United's season and they made sure they started it without any hiccups.

In the build-up to the game against the French champions United centre-back Rio Ferdinand, who was absent because of a calf injury, tweeted that "an away goal or two would be nice" as well as a "clean sheet".

In addition, he was also "looking for a solid, composed team performance" and, although it was hardly exciting, he got most of what he wanted.

The closest the visitors came to giving their absent centre-back a goal came early on when they were almost rewarded for a pacy and purposeful start.

A poor Nani free-kick cannoned kindly off the Marseille wall to Fletcher on the edge of the box but his shot was saved by Mandanda and gathered at the second attempt.

That was as much as either keeper had to do for the rest of the first half as Marseille settled, and discipline and defence dominated over any attacking intent and invention that either side managed.

In higher-profile games United boss Sir Alex Ferguson tends to play with a lone striker up front, and that meant Wayne Rooney was deployed on the left of midfield as Dimitar Berbatov led the line on his own for the Red Devils.

Mraseille lacked the creativity to find a way through the 4-5-1 United line-up, and when the visitors switched to 4-3-3 during forays forward, they lacked the cutting edge to open up the hosts.

United almost benefited from a mistake when Mandanda missed a Rooney cross to the far post on the hour mark, only for ex-United defender Gabriel Heinze to head away with Nani waiting to nod in.

With both teams more intent on keeping a clean sheet than engineering a goal, a slice of fortune for the home side almost made a difference.

Edouard Cisse's shot was deflected to Ayew and he dragged his angled effort across goal and just out of the reach of team-mate Brandao.

Rooney appeared to be dragged down late on when he threatened to break clear but the referee saw nothing wrong with the challenge as the game ended in a disappointing stalemate.


A late foul on Rooney warranted a free-kick and a red card. United got nothing

Glazers Confirm 100% Ownership

Manchester United have told the Premier League the Glazer family still owns 100% of the club.

There had been speculation the American owners may have sold a significant stake to pay off their controversial £220m PIK (payment in kind) loans.

Doubts grew after the Glazers set up a new parent company registered in Delaware, where there is no requirement to reveal details of ownership.

A club spokesman told BBC Sport: "There has been no change of ownership."

However, the repayment of the PIKs , which were first borrowed at the time of the Glazer takeover in 2005 and accumulated punitive interest rolled up year on year, raises more questions than it answers.

And fans' groups now want to know if the Glazers have simply replaced one form of expensive debt with another that is concealed by the transfer of the ultimate parent company, Red Football LLC, from Nevada to Delaware.

With persistent reports linking United with a sale to the Qatar royal family, there is also the possibility that the Glazers have sold an option on the future sale in return for the money to pay off the PIKs.

But the club have repeatedly insisted that the Glazers have no intention of selling United.

The move to pay off the PIK loans last November surprised their critics and removed one of the biggest financial questions hanging over the Glazer business model.

Many had expected the family to exercise a right, included in their £500m bond refinancing last year, to use £70m of club revenue to start paying off the PIKs.

Instead the Glazers issued a voluntary free payment notice informing the holders of the PIK loans that they would be paying up in full - leaving doubts over where they had found the money.

Anders Is Now Fatboy Slim

Manchester United's Anders Lindegaard is hoping his new fitness regime will pay handsome dividends as he attempts to prove he is the logical successor to current first choice Edwin van der Sar.

The Denmark goalkeeper, 26, who signed for United last November, was put on a stringent diet shortly after switching to Old Trafford.

Lindegaard told Danish newspaper Tipsbladet: "The first thing that happened when I came is that I was put on a diet.

"In short, they told me I was too fat. I have been instructed when to eat and that it is only proteins, carbs and vegetables from now on."

But Lindegaard, who has made two FA Cup appearances for United since joining from Aalesund, is prepared to make the necessary sacrifices in order to try and nail down a regular starting spot.

"There are rules that need to be followed," he admitted. "Or, as the manager (Sir Alex Ferguson) says, 'it is worth it (the dieting regime) when your career is over and you are standing there with a lot of medals hanging around your neck'."

However, his former manager at Aalesund, Kjetil Rekdal, backed his former protégé, despite the concern over his weight when he first made the switch to the Premier League.

"It is hard to say what he did after leaving us for a holiday," he said. "But he might have celebrated his new contract (at United) with a Carlsberg and some good food."

Spruce Up The Cup

Sir Alex Ferguson would like to see a freshening up of the FA Cup format to provide a new lease of life to football’s oldest competition, which is fast approaching a century and a half in existence.

The Reds boss says a number of alterations to the format and timing of the 140-year-old tournament would retain its prestige and place among the top honours for English club sides to win.

“They say the romance of the FA Cup is fading, but try telling that to the 9,000 Crawley supporters at Old Trafford,” Sir Alex said in his matchday programme notes ahead of Saturday’s 1-0 win over the non-league club. “The excitement and tradition [is] there all right, and long may it continue.

“It’s a fine tournament, though maybe it could do with a smartening up along with a bit of tweaking to fit into the modern football calendar. I read that the Football Assocation are concerned about a perceived decline in interest from fans and are considering various measures to reivtalise a competition we may have been taking for granted. There is no doubt that the FA Cup has suffered from the success of the European competitions, this season in particular with Wembley the venue for the Champions League final on May 28 forcing the FA Cup final to be played a fortnight earlier.

“The proposal to switch the final to a tea-time kick-off instead of the traditional 3pm start will please the broadcasters because early evening is a peak viewing slot, but I can’t see that making a fundamental difference to the popularity of the competition.

“What I do think is worth looking at is the German model of taking a month’s break from football in January and then launching the second half of the season with their Cup competition. This might mean spilling over into the summer season, but I see nothing wrong with that and playing league fixtures beyond the end of May. After all, we are playing internationals into June and we could accommodate a league extension.”

There is a balancing act between modernisation and protecting the traditions of the tournament. But Sir Alex believes success can be achieved in both areas in a tournament United have won a record 11 times.

“What I would like to see preserved is the timing of the FA Cup final to fall as the last day of the football season, with the big dat at Wembley a natural climax generating the glamour and glory associated with the Cup. I wouldn’t like to see replays abandoned in favour of penalty shoot-outs either. Think of Burton Albion and the money they were able to make from their replay with us!

“I do think the FA’s idea to seed the Premier League clubs in the early stages to help protect the quality of the tournament is a good one. And I’m sure with the resources available to the FA that they could come up with improved ways of marketing, advertising and projecting the iamge of a competition that has stood the test of time and is still capable of catching the imagination of all true lovers of the game.”

Evra Puts Pen To Paper

Patrice Evra has signed a contract extension that will keep him at Old Trafford until at least the end of the 2013/14 season.

The 29-year-old left-back joined the Reds in January 2006 and has made 226 appearances, scoring three goals. He has won three Premier League titles, three League Cups including one as captain in 2010 and winners' medals in both the Champions League and the Club World Cup.

“Ever since I arrived at United, it’s been a dream come true playing here,” Evra told ManUtd.com. “The fans, the players, the manager and the staff all work hard to make this club the best in the world.

“I’ve won a lot in the last five years, but I want to win more and I know that’s the mentality of everyone here.”

The deal secures the services of a player Sir Alex Ferguson describes as “unquestionably one of the world’s best left backs”.

The boss added: “Patrice has developed into a key character in the dressing room. It’s great that he’s committed himself to Manchester United. His experience and talent will be increasingly important to us.”

FA Cup Quarter-final Draw: United To Face Leyton Orient or Arsenal

United have been drawn at home to Arsenal or Leyton Orient in the quarter-finals of this season's FA Cup.

Arsenal had looked set to book a trip to Old Trafford when Tomas Rosicky headed the opening goal of Sunday's fifth round meeting at Brisbane Road, only for Jonathan Tehoue to smash in a last-gasp leveller for the League One underdogs.

The two sides must now reconvene at the Emirates Stadium to decide who United will host on 12 or 13 March.

Arsenal will remain firm favourites to set up a 14th FA Cup meeting with the Reds, but will rue having to crowbar another fixture into an already hectic schedule. Should the Gunners win through, they will visit Old Trafford just after their Champions League trip to Barcelona and before United host Marseille.

The two sides have shared a rich, eventful history in the FA Cup. Of 13 meetings to date, United have six wins to Arsenal's five, with just two draws. However, this is the first time they have met in the sixth round.

United emerged triumphant from the most recent meeting between the two sides, romping to a 4-0 fifth-round win in February 2008, and arguably the most famous head-to-head was 1999's epic semi-final replay at Villa Park. Arsenal have also enjoyed fond memories at United's expense; most notably edging the 1979 and 2005 finals in dramatic circumstances.

The Reds have faced Leyton Orient 12 times - winning six games, drawing four and losing two - but have not met the East Londoners in the FA Cup before, or at all since December 1974.

This year's remaining quarter-finals pit Stoke against West Ham or Burnley, while Manchester City or Aston Villa host Everton or Reading and Bolton will travel to Birmingham.

FA Cup quarter-final draw

Stoke City v West Ham or Burnley
Manchester City or Aston Villa v Everton or Reading
Birmingham City v Bolton
Manchester United v Leyton Orient or Arsenal

Ties to be played 12/13 March 2011.

Nani Can Be The Best

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Nani is capable of becoming one of the world’s very best players in the coming years.

Like most fans, Sir Alex has been thrilled by the winger's rapid transformation this season into one the most consistent and exciting players in Europe.

The Portuguese international is now one of the first names of the manager’s teamsheet and, at 22, has plenty of time to break into the highest echelon of players in world football.

"I don't need to trumpet Nani's improvement," Sir Alex told reporters on Friday. "He has been consistent all season. He is a match-winner; he creates goals and he scores goals.

"He had seven strikes at goal against [Manchester] City and that is a high ratio for a winger, particularly in a big game, and he scored a goal as well. Every time he gets near that box you think something is going to happen.

"He is starting to mature and be consistent. At 22 years of age, that gives him a good chance of getting to the level you are talking about."

As Nani develops, it’s inevitable parallels will be drawn between him and compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo. While Nani may not yet be at Ronaldo’s level, the United boss believes the Reds’ number 17 has adapted to Premier League football sooner than his former mentor.

"Ronaldo was exceptional, a once-in-a-lifetime player," Sir Alex added. "But it did take him time to settle and develop in the English game. I think Nani has done it a bit quicker."

Anders Is Left Wanting More

Anders Lindegaard has already acclimatised to the high standards expected at Old Trafford and he branded United’s 1-0 FA Cup fifth round win over Crawley Town as “not good enough”.

The Danish goalkeeper was handed his second start for the Reds – his first at Old Trafford – and although he wasn’t required to make many saves, he was at the sharp end of a late spell of pressure from the non-league visitors.

“Crawley did a great job,” Anders told MUTV. “It’s a cup match and I’ve heard from the manager in the last few days that in the FA Cup anything can happen. This match was evidence of that. With a bit more luck, Crawley could have scored.

“In an FA Cup match with the score at 1-0, the end of the game is bound to be hectic. But we dealt with it and we are happy with the win, even though it wasn’t pretty. We just have to forget this match and move on. We didn’t do well and we should get the level much higher for the rest of the season. This wasn’t good enough.”

That said, the 26-year-old keeper was pleased to play his first game at Old Trafford. “It felt very good,” he said. “You ask yourself how you will do, and I felt good. I felt confident. I felt I was in the right mindset. So it was a good experience.

“It’s the same when I played against Southampton, it’s a big match. It may be against a lower division team but it gives you a taste for more. As I said after my first match, I’m not here to pick my nose. I’m here because I want to play and in that sense I’m no different to anyone else.”

Boss: Crawley Deserved A Draw

Sir Alex Ferguson suspects that some of his players failed to understand the magnitude of the FA Cup, as the Premier League leaders just about sidled past Crawley Town and into the quarter-finals.

Wes Brown's first half header took the Reds into the last eight, but non-league Crawley dominated the second period and their efforts fully merited a replay back at the Broadfield Stadium.

"It didn't matter what the scoreline was today, it was their day - there's no question about that," the Boss told MUTV. "They deserved a draw, really, on the second half, with the effort they put in, the commitment.

"They made it very difficult for us and we were second to every ball. It's disappointing. But we had some players who maybe don't understand what FA Cup football is like. Maybe for them it's the biggest lesson.

"In the first half we played very well, played a lot of good football and could've been three or four up, but it wasn't to be and while it's only 1-0 in a cup tie, it only takes a second to lose a goal - and we nearly did.

"Sometimes you get the breaks in the cup and you struggle through one round. We've done that in the past and it was another example today."

The United manager's cause was hindered by injuries to his entire Brazilian contingent during the course of the game, prompting a change to 4-4-2 when Wayne Rooney replaced Anderson, and widespread defensive tinkering when the da Silva twins made way for Chris Smalling and makeshift right-back Darren Fletcher.

"It's a big problem, having to take your two full-backs off, when they were terrific," said Sir Alex. "They're such good footballers. And Anderson had a bit of a problem with his hamstring so we had to take these players off.

"It's not easy when you do that. It unbalances the team. We ended up having to play Darren Fletcher at right-back - he did well, but it's still not the best. We'll see how they are tomorrow."

United Edge Past Brave Crawley

Crawley Town's dream of causing an FA Cup shock ended in defeat at Old Trafford - but not before the ambitious non-league club had given Manchester United a major scare.

Sir Alex Ferguson's Premier League leaders were fortunate Wes Brown's first-half header gave them a lead to protect as they were forced to survive a late assault from a side 93 places below them on the domestic football ladder.

Blue Square Bet Premier side Crawley - backed noisily throughout by 9,000 supporters who made the journey from Sussex - were unlucky not to earn a deserved replay as David Hunt and Matt Tubbs missed late chances to equalise.

The closest call of all came in the dying moments when Richard Brodie's looping header hit the bar and bounced to safety with United keeper Anders Lindegaard beaten.

United, undistinguished and uninspired throughout, hung on and Crawley deservedly took the plaudits in front of their own fans at the final whistle, with Sergio Torres slipping a blade of Old Trafford's grass into his sock as a keepsake from a memorable occasion.

Steve Evans' side demonstrated why they are regarded as a Football League side in waiting as their energy and ambition pushed United back for most of the second half.

And it would not have been an injustice had their efforts been rewarded with a draw.

They can now return to the business of promotion with confidence and a reputation enhanced by the manner in which they acquitted themselves at Old Trafford.

For many of Ferguson's shadow squad, this was a chastening experience that shone a harsh spotlight on their limitations as they failed to take a rare opportunity to shine on one of the biggest stages in world football.

Bebe and Gabrial Obertan, in particular, looked out of their depth against the non-leaguers but very few individual displays would have pleased Ferguson.

United's frustration was summed up in the closing moments when, with Crawley on the attack again, substitute Wayne Rooney was rightly booked for a crude and reckless hack at Hunt as he raced clear of the striker.

Ferguson made nine changes from the derby victory against Manchester City, with only John O'Shea and Anderson surviving from the starting line-up, although match-winner Rooney was on the bench.

Crawley offered early encouragement to their huge travelling following when Ben Smith's long-range effort dipped behind United keeper Lindegaard but fell wide.

After that it was a tale of United dominating possession in the first half and Crawley showing tremendous energy and application in their attempts to keep their illustrious opponents at bay, a task they performed successfully until the 28th minute.

The visitors failed to clear Darron Gibson's corner and when he regained possession his angled cross was glanced beyond keeper Michel Kuipers by Brown.

Crawley boss Evans would have been frustrated that a lapse in concentration had undone so much of their good work in the opening exchanges.

Rooney came on at the interval but it was actually Crawley who created - and wasted - two chances in two minutes to draw level.

With 19 minutes left, the onrushing Hunt should have done better than volley wide before Tubbs was unlucky with an overhead kick from eight yards that appeared to have been deflected just over even though referee Lee Probert awarded a goal-kick.

And then, in the frantic final moments, substitute Brodie's header bounced agonisingly back off the bar.

But there was only pride in defeat for admirable Crawley as Old Trafford showed its appreciation of their efforts at the final whistle.


Former England international centre-back Wes Brown scored in the 28th minute

New Deal For Giggs

Ryan Giggs has signed a one-year extension to his contract, in a deal that will see the winger complete his 21st season as a first-team player.

Giggs signed professional forms with United in 1990, making his debut in March 1991. In that time he has made a club record 862 appearances, scoring 158 goals. He has won 11 Premier League titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups, two Champions Leagues, one Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and a Club World Cup.

Sir Alex Ferguson said: "You run out of words to describe Ryan Giggs. He is a marvellous player and a wonderful man. To have the desire and the ability to play at the top level in such a physically demanding position at his age requires a special person. He is still turning in man of the match performances and his experience is so vital for the younger players in the squad."

Ryan Giggs said: "All I’ve ever wanted to do is play for United and I’ve been lucky enough to do that for 20 years. It’s great to know I’m still contributing to the team’s success and I feel I’ve got a lot to offer on and off the pitch. This is an exciting time to be involved with so many good young players coming through."

Scholes Pays Glowing Tribute

Paul Scholes has paid tribute to his good friend and team-mate of more than 20 years, Gary Neville.

After 602 appearances for United, Neville called time on his career earlier this month, although he’ll continue to train with Sir Alex’s men until the end of the season.

Scholes played alongside Neville in the Reds’ youth ranks and the pair helped steer United to the FA Youth Cup final in 1993. Their careers progressed at a similar rate, with both becoming first-team regulars during the 1994/95 campaign.

“I grew up with Gary,” Scholes said. “I’ve been very close to him over the years and it’s sad. I’ll miss him.

“What a career he’s had, though. As well as 20 years and all the trophies he’s won here, he’s won 80-odd caps for England.

“Had Gary stayed fit then he’d probably have won more than 120 caps by now. It’s just a shame his fitness wasn’t right and now he’s made the decision to retire.”

Scholes also acknowledged the loss United will feel when Edwin van der Sar hangs up his goalkeeping gloves at the end of the season. The midfielder hailed the Dutchman’s “great career” and said “he’ll be a big loss to the team”.

Paul Scholes was speaking to Key103, United's official radio commentary partner.

Lloris Reveals United Dream

Lyon goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has hinted that he would be interested in a move to Manchester United.

United are thought to be drawing up a list of transfer targets to replace current No.1 Edwin van der Sar when he hangs up his gloves at the end of the season.

French international Lloris is thought to figure highly on United's wanted list and the keeper has admitted his huge admiration for the Old Trafford outfit.

However, the 24-year-old has played down talk linking him with a move to United by saying he is happy at Lyon.

"Manchester United is a great football club," Lloris told RMC. "They are one of the most successful clubs in the world, so, of course, Manchester is one of the clubs that make me dream.

"Moreover, it is unfortunate to lose a keeper like Van der Sar because even at 40 he is still able to do exceptional things. I also think he could keep playing.

"But for me, there is no question of leaving Lyon for the moment."

New Role For Tomasz

United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak made a visit to his home city of Wroclaw last month as part of his new role as a Friend of UEFA for Euro 2012.

Wroclaw will play host to some of the matches during next year’s European Championships which are being held in Poland and the Ukraine, and Kuszczak recently sat down with ManUtd.com to talk about his involvement in the tournament and his ambitions for the coming year for both club and country…

So Tomasz, tell us more about your role as a Friend of UEFA for Euro 2012…
I feel very honoured to be involved and very proud that my home city will be hosting some of the games. It was nice to go back there recently and see some familiar faces. Everyone is working hard to get the city ready and I know it will be a great success.

What should potential visitors know about Wroclaw?
It might not be one of the most famous cities in Poland but it’s one of the most beautiful. Some of the buildings have been there for hundreds of years and are pretty spectacular. The Main Square, or ‘Rynek’ as it is called in Polish, has everything – great restaurants, cafés, bars and shops. I always spend time there when I go home. There are also some nice parks and I’d definitely recommend a visit to Wroclaw Zoo.

What’s your favourite part of the city?
I’d have to say the Main Square. You can spend all day long there. Wroclaw is a special place to me – it’s where everything started. My first school was there, I met my friends there and my first club is there, Slask Wroclaw. They’re in the Polish First Division which is decent league. I initially started in the youth team before moving up to the first team. They were great times.

How excited are the Polish people about playing host to Euro 2012?
Everyone is very excited. We all know it’s a big challenge for our country. There are a lot of things that need to be put into place before the tournament but everyone is working very hard on that and I know my country will put on a great tournament.

How’s the stadium in Wroclaw looking?
I went to see how it was coming along when I was over there and it looks fantastic. It’ll be finished this year and will hold just over 41,000. I was there at the start of construction and to mark the occasion we buried a time capsule underground which included a Champions League ball that I’d signed.

What would it mean to you to represent your country at the Championships?
It would be a dream come true. Things have been a bit up and down with the national team because I've not played too much football for my club. I’ve tried to be patient and wait for my chance and have always tried to do my best when I’ve been given it. It’s not been easy though. Every player wants to play for their country, but that situation is determined by what’s happening at your club. I hope I’ll get my chance here. I think I deserve one. But it’s not important what I think, it’s about what the boss decides. Sooner or later I need to play regular football and I hope by doing that it will give me a ticket to the European Championships because it would be an honour to be involved.

Nani's Key Role

In his first few seasons at Old Trafford, Nani, like so many of his team-mates, found himself in Cristiano Ronaldo’s shadow.

The promise was undeniable, but Nani struggled to replicate the sort of consistency we came to expect from his prolific compatriot. One week he'd terrorise defenders, the next he'd drift in and out of the game as he struggled to stamp his authority on the English league.

But ever since the beginning of 2010 - and this season in particular - Nani’s talent has yielded an unarguable return of goals, assists and game-breaking play. In short, he's become one of United's most influential and effective players.

There's little doubt the Portuguese winger is now an established attacking figure in Sir Alex's strongest XI. Combining elements of classic wing play – the pace and whipped crosses so crucial in the absence of Antonio Valencia – with the cut inside and a ferocious shot, Nani now has a full palette of attacking colours to choose from. And his strength with either foot means defenders are constantly kept on their toes.

No other United player is as effective striking from outside the box (Nani has netted four of the nine scored in total this term), he leads the Barclays Premier League assists table with 13 (15 in all competitions) and his 10 goals thus far is already a seasonal best. And, don't forget, there are still more than three months of the campaign to play.

If you drill down further and look at goals where Nani has played a significant role (eg. his defence-splitting pass at Blackpool to Darren Fletcher, which the Scot then squared for Berbatov to tap in, or the teasing cross at Stoke that Nemanja Vidic then headed back across goal for Javier Hernandez to nod in), you can add another seven goals to Nani’s 2010/11 scrapbook. That’s 32 vital contributions in 30 games.

Whichever way you slice it, there’s no doubt Nani has come of age.

Making progress
2010/11 (so far)
Apps: 22
Goals: 9
Assists: 13

2009/10
Apps: 23
Goals: 4
Assists: 10

2008/09
Apps: 13
Goals: 1
Assists: 4

2007/08
Aps: 26
Goals: 3
Assists: 6

Stats for league games only

Smalling's Derby Success

Chris Smalling declared his first Manchester derby a success after helping United beat City 2-1 in the Barclays Premier League at Old Trafford.

The young defender was outstanding against the Blues and showed no sign of inexperience despite starting just three league matches for the Reds prior to kick-off on Saturday.

Speaking to MUTV, Smalling admitted: “I was a little bit nervous but we’ve been building up to this game all week and I knew I was going to be playing quite early on so I was able to prepare fully. As soon as I got my first touch it felt like just another game. The atmosphere was electric. To be able to play in a game with that sort of magnitude was great."

Smalling was also keen to stress the importance of three points against City following the Reds' first league defeat of the season against Wolves last weekend. “We had all seen the table and realised how crucial the game was," he said.

"All week we had been working towards this so we could stretch the lead and put some pressure on the others at the top of the league. In terms of the three points, it really separates us from them so it was a massive game and for me to play my part was a real buzz."

United took the lead just before half-time after Nani latched onto Ryan Giggs' superb through-ball to finish past Joe Hart, before an Edin Dzeko shot deflected off David Silva to put City back on level terms shortly after the hour mark.

Smalling felt the Reds were always in control of the game, however, and were worthy winners in the end. "Their goal was pretty jammy and set us back a little bit but we just kept on going and Nani and Giggs were brilliant. I think we got what we deserved and it would have been disappointing to only get a draw out of that game.”

The Reds defender went on to praise Wayne Rooney’s acrobatic winner, labelling it the perfect way to seal victory. “You can see on the replay how the ball comes off the middle of his foot and goes right into the top corner. There are not many better ways to win a match. It was great for Wayne to pop up after working so hard during the game and seal such a great occasion.”

Boss Savours Derby Winner

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Wayne Rooney’s acrobatic winner in the Manchester derby is among Old Trafford's greatest ever goals – and comparable to some of those scored by the manager's boyhood hero Denis Law.

Rooney dealt the decisive blow in the 77th minute of an enthralling local derby, after goals from Nani and David Silva had deadlocked the score at 1-1.

Speaking after the match, Sir Alex was at a loss to recall a better goal at M16 and was keen to point out the similarities between Rooney and Law. “Wayne hit a volley against Newcastle some years ago that had the same ferocity and we’ve of course seen some excellent goals here, but in terms of execution you’ll never see any better.

“I have to say it reminded me of him (Law) when it went in, but whether or not Denis hit them in with such ferocity I’m not so sure. It was unbelievable. I haven’t seen anything like it before, that’s for sure. It was absolutely stunning, unbelievable.”

In stark contrast to the 0-0 draw in the derby at Eastlands earlier this season, the game was an end-to-end affair as both sides went for the jugular. However the boss was confident United more than deserved the win.

“I thought City made a bright start and got behind Patrice Evra a couple of times with Toure and Silva, who caused us a bit of bother at times. But from the 15th minute onwards I felt we played some fantastic football.

“The width in our game was terrific, Ryan Giggs had enough composure to take the ball in tight situations and Nani was threatening all the time,getting by players, shooting on goal and putting in some great crosses. I thought we deserved to be in front at half-time.

“In the second half City made a change by bringing Wright-Phillips on which I think helped them on the right side of the pitch but nothing really bothered us. They got a lucky break when Dzeko’s shot deflected off Silva’s back and that moment gave them the impetus.

“We decided to go for it and brought Berbatov on. He made a difference in the sense of his control and we had some really good chances to get that second goal. At 1-0 we had two fantastic chances to score but then came the winning goal from Rooney.”

Victory for United moves the Reds eight points clear of the Blues with a game in hand – a massive blow to the local rivals' title hopes this season. However Sir Alex is adamant Roberto Mancini’s men can't be ruled out yet.

“They’re still in it. They are in the top four, they’ve got a big strong squad and they’ll win more games than you might think. They want to be in the top four and that’s to our advantage to keep them in that.”

Rooney: My Greatest Goal

Wayne Rooney described his winner in Saturday’s Manchester derby as the best goal he’s ever scored.

With 78 minutes on the clock and the score locked at 1-1, Rooney launched himself into the air and acrobatically volleyed Nani’s cross into the top corner of the net.

Afterwards, Rooney was remarkably matter-of-fact about the goal when talking to the TV cameras, although he did concede he’d never scored a better one.

“Yeah, I think that’s my best one," he said. "I just tried to get into a good position for when Nani crossed the ball. I saw it come into the box and I thought, ‘Why not?’. So I tried it [an overhead kick] and thankfully it went into the top corner.

“Nine times out of 10 they go over the crossbar or wide, but thankfully today it went into the top corner. It’s instinctive. You don’t have time to think about what you’re going to do.”

Replays of Rooney’s strike will be broadcast around the world for weeks. Even Wayne seemed a little taken aback by its brilliance as he struggled to find the words to describe how he felt when it hit the back of the net.

“It’s indescribable,” he said. “When City equalised they started moving the ball a bit and making life difficult for us. But we knew it was important to keep going and try and win the game.

“When I scored the goal, I could see the joy in the crowd, the joy among the players, the manager, the players and all the staff. It was a fantastic moment.”

Rooney’s joy was as much for the team as it was for himself, though. After losing at Wolves last weekend, it was essential the Reds bounced back to winning ways.

“It was a massive game and we’re glad we came out on top,” Rooney said. “We knew we had to win today to keep us top of the league and maintain the gap [ahead of Arsenal and City].

“I think this almost certainly rules City out of the title race now, unless a disaster happens.

“We felt we owed the fans a good performance and three points. This keeps us on top of the league, so we’re thankful for that.”

Wayne Rooney was talking to Sky Sports and MUTV.


Rooney described his winner in Saturday's Manchester Derby as the best goal he has ever scored.

Rooney Wonder Goal Sinks Manchester City

Wayne Rooney's spectacular late winner put Manchester United's Premier League title assault back on course and left Manchester City devastated at Old Trafford.

David Silva's deflected equaliser put Roberto Mancini's side in sight of a point after Nani's first-half goal gave United a slender advantage in a tight and tense encounter.

It was Rooney, however, who produced a moment of inspiration to score a stunning overhead kick that will live forever in the memory of United's fans and extended City's dismal sequence of only one league win in their last 27 visits to Old Trafford.

Silva's fortunate leveller, unwittingly deflecting in substitute Edin Dzeko's shot via his back, had given City momentum but they were stopped in their tracks in the most dramatic fashion with only 12 minutes left.

Nani's cross from the right flank was high and behind Rooney as he lurked near the penalty spot, but he elevated an indifferent personal display to the heights by readjusting his position and sending an acrobatic, unstoppable overhead kick high past startled City keeper Joe Hart.

The quality of the goal was worthy of winning any game and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson may even look back on it as a strike that won the title after they bounced back from their first Premier League defeat of the season at Wolves last Saturday.

Rooney, superbly shackled by City defender Vincent Kompany for so long as Ferguson surprisingly left Dimitar Berbatov on the bench, had previously cut a forlorn and frustrated figure but his natural instincts continue to serve him and United so well.

And if his love affair with Old Trafford was strained by the saga of his demand to leave earlier this season, the bond was rekindled as United claimed a vital victory.

It enabled them to extend their lead at the top of the table to seven points at the final whistle - and also inflicted a serious blow to City's own lingering hopes of mounting a challenge as they now stand eight points behind United having played a game more.

City were left to regret failing to make the most of some early supremacy when Silva squandered the perfect opportunity to strike a crucial blow early on in the second minute.

United boss Ferguson entrusted Rooney with a lone attacking role - and in the opening stages it was City who made all the running and should have taken the lead in the opening moments.

Silva, a significant influence as City dominated, exchanged passes with Carlos Tevez inside the area and was left with only Edwin van der Sar to beat. The angle was acute but the gifted Spaniard was wasteful as he rolled a tame finish across the face of goal and inches wide.

The hulking figure of Yaya Toure also cast a giant shadow over United's midfield as they struggled to assert any authority and he was frustrated when referee Andre Marriner ignored his penalty appeals when his cross struck Chris Smalling.

As United finally started to pose a threat, Darren Fletcher headed straight at City keeper Hart from Ryan Giggs' cross - and the seemingly ageless Old Trafford veteran was instrumental when they took the lead four minutes before the interval.

Rooney challenged for Van der Sar's clearance and Giggs pounced to deliver an inviting pass for Nani, who escape the attentions of Pablo Zabaleta to slide a composed finish past Hart.

City boss Mancini, who watched his team fail to capitalise on so much early possession, made a change early in the second half when he replaced Aleksandar Kolarov with Shaun Wright-Phillips.

And in an attempt to actually call Van der Sar into serious action, something City had failed to do, he then introduced Dzeko for James Milner.

The impact was exactly what City required as both substitutes were involved when they drew level after 65 minutes. Wright-Phillips' cross fell to Dzeko and his effort took a vital touch of Silva's back to wrong-foot Van der Sar.

Ferguson immediately introduced Berbatov for Anderson, but it was that moment of brilliance from Rooney that put them back in front and visibly deflated City.

City were stunned at being struck by such a blow and their threat fizzled out as Old Trafford buzzed with excitement at what had unfolded. United survived in comfort to close out a crucial victory.


Rooney celebrates his fantastic overhead goal with Nani, Fletcher and Smalling

DHL Deal For Reds

DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, has signed a contract to become the Official Logistics Partner of Manchester United. DHL will undertake a range of logistics services on behalf of the club over three years.

The contract provides the opportunity for a wide range of integrated business-to-business and consumer marketing activities and events across many platforms including digital advertising perimeter boards, matchday programme, club website and selected events at Old Trafford.

In addition, DHL will work with the Manchester United Foundation in the development of a series of programmes to improve the lives of vulnerable young people in our local communities. More detail on the specific initiatives will follow in the coming months.

David Wilson, Senior Vice President Sales, DHL Express (Europe) said: “This agreement adds another world-class property to our wider portfolio of global logistics partnerships. Teaming up with prestigious partners such as Manchester United reflects our ability to provide unparalleled logistics services for quality-focused customers across the industry.”

Phil Couchman, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Express (UK and Ireland), added: “By partnering with Manchester United we have teamed up with a brand whose international footprint mirrors our own. A major part of our business is to help businesses grow by offering them an efficient and effective international offer. The way that Manchester United has grown from humble beginnings formed by a group of railway workers into a worldwide brand with 333 million followers shows how small businesses can emerge into world leaders.”

Reds' Chief Executive, David Gill, is delighted to announce the deal. “DHL are a globally recognised organisation and their commitment to excellence and high standards makes them an ideal partner for Manchester United," he said. "I’m delighted to welcome them to our family of sponsors and look forward to the opportunities this partnership will create.”

United Commercial Director, Richard Arnold added: “This deal underlines the continuing global strength of Manchester United. DHL are a like minded global brand with a track record in sports sponsorship and a strong presence in many of our key territories around the world. We're excited at the opportunities this partnership will create for DHL and our fans around the world.”

Anderson Admires Hulk

Manchester United midfielder Anderson admits he would love to play with Porto striker Hulk in the Premier League.

Anderson left Hulk's current club in 2007 to join the Red Devils and the 22-year-old is keen for his Brazilian colleague to follow suit.

"He has quality, would suit English football and I think he is good enough to do well at a big club," said the United midfielder.

"If it was my decision then I would sign him but Sir Alex Ferguson signs the players and his knowledge would mean he knows all about the player."

Hulk has been linked with a move to the Premier League in the last 12 months with many of England's leading sides reported to be monitoring the powerful 24-year-old.

Manchester City are said to be strong admirers of the £20million rated centre-forward, while London duo Chelsea and Arsenal are also believed to have expressed an interest.

Fletcher: We Can Play Much Better

Darren Fletcher says United must produce the team’s best form of the season to clinch the Barclays Premier League crown as the title race turns into a sprint for the finish line.

United are four points clear after suffering a first league defeat of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend. But Saturday’s visit of Manchester City at Old Trafford represents the first of a number of potentially decisive matches in the run-in.

Critics say United have not performed all season, and while Fletcher disputes the veracity of that statement he says the team can, and must, play much better on a regular basis.

“We feel we have played well at times this season,” says the Scot. “But we expect more – we expect more of ourselves all the time – there’s no ceiling on performance levels here.

“There are a lot of tough games to come and there’s a long way to go to win the league. We definitely feel as though we can play better and hopefully our form improves towards the end of the season, which is when it really matters in the league and the Champions League. This is when the big games come, the matches that ultimately win you trophies.

“We’ve got to go to Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal and we play Manchester City this weekend. There are a lot of big matches ahead. But we enjoy big games here and this club is all about performing and rising to those challenges.

"We know all of that lies ahead of us and we’ve never naïvely thought that the league is over. There is a lot of hard work to come, lots of big games and plenty of twists and turns I’m sure.”

The players will have to perform much better than they did against Wolves at Molineux, but Fletch ensures us that United are prepared to put in the hard yards.

“You have got to earn the title,” he adds. “Nobody is going to give you the trophy lightly. You have got to earn it off your own back.

"The team that wins the league will be the team that deserves it, the side that showed the best form throughout the season. Hopefully we can prove our title credentials in the next few months.”

Fletcher was speaking to ManUtd.com, Key 103, PA and BBC Manchester.

Neville: Rafael Can Take My Place

Gary Neville is backing Rafael to be his long-term successor in United's defence.

Neville announced his retirement last week after an illustrious career spanning two decades. After breaking into the team in the mid '90s, the former England international became his generation's best right-back. But Neville feels United have already found the man to fill his boots.

"He’s more than capable of going on to become United’s right-back for many, many years," Neville told ManUtd.com. "His performances in the last six months in particular have been brilliant. He’s matured and really come of age. I remember when I was young defender you need that time to mature and get experience.

"Rafael’s always had ability - he gets to the ball quickly, he’s aggressive, he defends his position well, he’s tough, courageous, good on the ball and provides energy in attack, but he’s really developed in the last six months with games and experience. He has a great attitude too."

Such has been Rafael's progress this season, Neville feels the Reds have a stable back four. "We haven’t had a consistent right-back in the last couple of years," he adds. "I’ve been around and Wes and Sheasy have played some games as well as Rafael, but in the last four or five months we’ve had a consistent performer in that position. Now you can say we’ve got a first-choice back four for the first time in a few years with Rafael, Rio, Vida and Patrice, who are all quality players. That’s important to a team."

Fletcher Stays Focused

Darren Fletcher has dismissed the disappointment of United’s long unbeaten run coming to a halt against Wolves claiming the Reds are only interested in winning the title - not breaking records.

A third minute Nani strike set United well on the way to making it 30 Premier League games unbeaten – a new club record.

But two first half goals from George Elokobi and Kevin Doyle turned the game on its head and brought an end to talk of United ending the season without defeat.

Speaking after the match, Fletcher told MUTV: “The main concern for us is winning the league and losing today is a dent in our challenge. That is the real disappointment for the lads. The unbeaten record has gone and people will stop talking about that now.

“We could have remained unbeaten the whole season and not won the league. What would have been the point in that? Our focus is to win the league. We have lost three points and we will have to bounce back and show our character.”

Despite the frustration of defeat, Fletcher was keen to praise the efforts of Wolves -who add United to a growing list of high profile teams to come undone at Molineux this season. The midfielder was also critical of the Reds' inability to take advantage of an early lead.

Fletcher admits: “It was a great start for us and from moments like that we should really go on and see the game out. We had a couple of chances in the first half, didn’t take them and conceding goals from set-pieces ultimately cost us.

“I spoke before the game and said Wolves have been mightily unlucky this season. I don’t think their performances have been rewarded with the points they deserve, they have played well and lost games. They play the way their manager is – in your face.

“We are obviously disappointed to lose after getting off to a great start. We knew it would be a difficult game against Wolves, they play a high tempo physical game and the ball is always in the air. We just didn’t create that chance in the second half to get us back in the game.”

Wolves Were Worthy Winners

Sir Alex Ferguson was magnanimous in defeat after his side were left humbled by Premier League strugglers Wolves.

Despite taking a third-minute lead through Nani's clinical strike, the Reds rarely approached top gear as the tenacious hosts overturned their deficit and clung on for a deserved victory.

"We are disappointed, particularly after going in front so early in the game," Sir Alex told MUTV. "The result was caused by bad play at set-pieces. That is the nuts and bolts of it and we don’t dispute that.

"It was a great start. We made a lot of chances, particularly in the first-half. Nani had two great shots at the goalkeeper, Wayne Rooney had a good chance too, so we played a lot of good football in the first-half and made some great chances, but we were never at the races in the second-half. We had an incredible amount of possession. The pitch wasn't very good, but nevertheless we never really created anything."

The league leaders' cause was hindered by the late withdrawal of Rio Ferdinand, who suffered a calf injury during the warm-up and is now out of action for a fortnight. In his stead, Jonny Evans started, while Chris Smalling stepped up to the bench.

"Normally I think we would have put Chris Smalling in that position because he has been playing right side and Jonny has been playing left side, (but) Jonny had already done the warm-up. It was important because of the experience that Rio has in games like that."

Nani Targets Unbeaten Term

Not content with equalling a club-record 29 games unbeaten in the league, Nani says he wants the Reds to go the entire season without defeat.

United’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday night matched the Reds’ incredible run in 1999; now, Sir Alex’s men will make history if they avoid defeat at Wolves on Saturday afternoon.

“We hope to finish the season unbeaten,” Nani told MUTV. “But we know it will be very hard. We’ll work hard to win those games, though.”

Against Aston Villa, Nani was one of the Reds’ brightest sparks, linking well with Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov. He was unlucky not to win a penalty when Richard Dunne blocked his run in the first half before laying on the Reds’ second goal with a lovely curling cross.

Rooney’s finish, his second of the game, sent the Reds 2-0 up on the stroke of half-time and Nani believes the striker will now flourish.

“Wayne hasn’t scored a lot of goals recently but he’s been very important for the team.

“He’s been working really hard every game. Sometimes things don’t go the way he’d like them to but I think tonight was his best performance of the season. From now on he’ll be very important for the team.”


Nani congratulates Rooney on the striker's fine opening goal

Boss Happy To Vanquish Villa

Sir Alex Ferguson was left beaming by the authoritative air with which United saw off the stern challenge of Aston Villa.

Three superb goals – two from Wayne Rooney and a clincher from Nemanja Vidic – accounted for Gerard Houllier’s Villans. Although the visitors briefly halved the arrears through Darren Bent, United rarely wobbled in an imposing display.

“I’m absolutely delighted,” the Boss told MUTV. “Fantastic performance. We had some absolutely great displays today. I’m very pleased. They all played well. Villa are a very good side and we had to really concentrate when they had the ball because they had some good possession. But we missed some great chances and their goalkeeper’s had two or three really fantastic saves. I thought we deserved to win by more, actually.”

United’s victory was teed up by Wayne Rooney’s scorching opener inside a minute; a gentle caress of Edwin van der Sar’s free-kick and a thumping finish to follow. Having bagged his first home goal from open play since last March, Rooney added a second just before half-time, and Sir Alex was delighted to see his number 10 back on the scoresheet.

“It was a fantastic bit of vision from Edwin van der Sar and a great strike, and he’s taken it absolutely fantastically. What a hit. Wayne Rooney was fantastic tonight. He’s still got the appetite to play, and that’s an important factor in it all. He never stops trying hard, and that’s an inbred thing in the lad. We can’t be criticising him when he’s giving that effort.”

Rooney Eyes Goal Rush

Having bagged his first Old Trafford goals from open play since last March, Wayne Rooney was predictably upbeat after United's win over Aston Villa.

The England striker hammered home United's opening goal inside the first minute, then doubled his and Reds' tally on the stroke of half-time, and he is aiming to stay on the goal trail during the nitty-gritty stage of the season.

"I’ve been happy with my play," the striker told MUTV. "Obviously I want to score. As a striker you want to score. I’ve been happy with my play, apart from the Blackpool game – I just couldn’t get in the game – but I’m delighted today to score and hopefully I can go on a good run and help the team win games.

"It was a great start. We’ve done that the last few home games; we’ve scored early and taken it from there, but we knew tonight was going to be a difficult game. Villa passed the ball well at times and it was quite an open game in the second half, but the most important thing was getting three points, which we’re delighted to have done."

United's victory was sealed by a rasping strike from Nemanja Vidic. Although it was only the third goal of the Serbian's United career that hasn't come via a header, Rooney insists the skipper is a dark horse in the finishing stakes.

"It was a great strike by Vida," admitted the striker. "To be honest, he’s a great striker of the ball. Sometimes after training when the forwards are staying behind and doing finishing, every now and again he comes over and does a little bit. He’s got a great strike on him, so it’s a shame he’s not that far up the pitch all the time!"

United Halt Villa Revival

Wayne Rooney scored twice to help Manchester United maintain their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a win over Aston Villa.

Rooney opened the scoring emphatically within a minute with a powerful strike that followed sublime control.

He then sidefooted home an inviting Nani cross on the stoke of half-time.

Darren Bent slotted in a Stewart Downing cross to give Villa hope but that was ended when defender Nemanja Vidic thumped in United's third.

United, like Rooney, have been accused of not being at their best this season but there could be no such criticisms of either in this match as the Red Devils equalled a club record run of 29 games unbeaten in the Premier League.

Although the Midlanders, who had beaten United 1-0 at Old Trafford last season, briefly rallied after Bent's goal, they were comprehensively brushed aside.

Rooney had scored only two times in the league ahead of the game and, despite worries over the his lack of goals, his manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he was satisfied with the striker's overall contribution.

Ferguson kept faith in Rooney, even though Javier Hernandez had scored two goals in as many games to stake a claim for a first-team spot, and his decision was justified after only 54 seconds.

United keeper Edwin van der Sar was the unlikely provider as his quickly taken free-kick found Rooney, who had got ahead of last defender Richard Dunne, and the forward brilliantly controlled a ball coming from over his shoulder before powering a shot past Brad Friedel.

The goal gave the Old Trafford side an early grip on the game and they rarely relinquished their stranglehold as they passed with poise and defended with discipline.

Villa struggled to find a way through United and a lack of accuracy to their passing only compounded their frustrations, with a Bent mistiming an effort during a rare opening for them.

The home side were professionally going about their business and were denied a spot-kick when Dunne clumsily barged Nani off the the ball.

It was a challenge very similar to Rafael Da Silva's on Blackpool's Luke Varney when United also escaped giving away a penalty in a recent game.

United did not dwell on the decision and Nani had a left-foot piledriver fended wide by Friedel, who is now the oldest player in Villa's history at 39 years and 259 days.

Friedel again had to save as he parried a Patrice Evra shot before gathering the ball after the left-back had been put through by Ryan Giggs.

Giggs was voted United's greatest player in a recent poll and even at 37 his closing down of the opposition and tracking back was an example to his team-mates.

The more glamorous qualities usually associated with him are skill and pace and he used those to race on to a ball across him and dummy a defender before having a right-foot shot saved.

United's threat eventually brought them a goal when Rooney ran on to Nani's delicious inswinging cross to slot in at the far post.

Ferguson's side may have been in control but they have squandered points from such positions previously this season and, when an unmarked Bent slotted in after 58 minutes, United's boss had reason for concern as the visitors showed signs of launching a comeback.

However, those fears for the Red Devils were quickly dispelled as Rooney laid the ball off to centre-back Nemanja Vidic and he drove in a curling shot from just inside the area.

A curling Ashley Young shot hit the crossbar with Van der Sar beaten as Villa tried to work their way back into the game.

But, that aside, it was United who carried the greater threat - Berbatov blazed high and Friedel excellently kept efforts from Nani and Rooney at bay as the Old Trafford outfit secured a 12 home win in 13 league games so far this season.


Rooney celebrates his opening goal against Aston Villa

Reina Not Ruling Out Old Trafford Move

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has refused to rule out a move to bitter rivals Manchester United.

United are considering their goalkeeping options as they seek a replacement for Edwin van der Sar when the Dutchman hangs up his gloves at the end of the season.

Reina has been mooted as a possible transfer target after establishing himself as one of the best keepers in Europe during his time at Liverpool.

The 28-year-old has admitted he could be tempted to make the move to Old Trafford as he wants to be challenging for trophies on a consistent basis.

"Yes, well Van der Sar will hang up his gloves in the summer so of course they are looking," Reina told Spanish radio station Ondo Sera. "I can't do anything. I can't say anything logically as I have a contract with Liverpool.

"Of course one likes to fight for titles and be in a team that does that. We always fought to be in the Champions League and try to win the title. But unfortunately it hasn't been the case in the last couple of years."

Former Barcelona and Villarreal custodian Reina has left the door open to quit Anfield if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.

"I won't lie, I want to play in the Champions League and challenge for titles," added Reina.

Learning From The Best

Chris Smalling has credited United’s centre-half pairing of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand as the main inspiration behind his impressive start to life at Old Trafford.

Last summer's arrival from Fulham has been a revelation for the Reds considering his lack of experience at the highest level. And although Jonny Evans played ahead of him at Wolves, Smalling has still made 11 starts so far in his first season - the majority of these as Vidic's partner in Ferdinand's absence. It's a baptism of fire that's brought the best out of the former Maidstone United man.

Smalling told MUTV: “It is a massive boost for me to play with Vidic. He is one of the world's best central defenders so to get the chance to learn my trade next to him is invaluable. He is always talking to me, which makes my job a lot easier when I step into the team.

“Vidic has had the biggest impact on the team this season. That is why we have been so solid at the back. He has been an ever-present, which just shows how formidable he has been this season.

“His partnership with Rio Ferdinand is something I admired from afar even before I came here. To be able to train with them each day, interact with them and pick up bits and pieces is just a bonus.”

Smalling also admits his surprise at how quickly he has settled in to life at United, considering he made the formidable jump from non-league to Barclays Premier League and onto UEFA Champions League football in just three years.

The defender admits: “A lot of the young lads have been here for many years, I only came here in the summer and I wasn't at Fulham for too long. I have surprised myself in how settled I have become. A lot of my family come up quite often. I feel really at ease.

“Manchester is quite different to London. There is more hustle and bustle in London. It is a bit more chilled out up here. I only live five minutes from the training ground. It is nice and easy. Nothing is too far.

“Each game that you play in makes you feel like you belong here. Hopefully there are many more to come. I really feel good at the moment.”

One thing he can’t get used to is the expectation and pressure of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world football, although the England Under-21 international says he is quickly learning the United way.

“It is all new for me being heavy favourites for so many competitions. A lot of the lads have been through this. They pass on their experience of getting through to the latter stages of games. They give you little pointers in terms of things like coming back at Blackpool. Wins like that help you to kick on and learn what this club is all about.

“Everyone becomes a lot more focused when you come towards the critical stages of the season. A lot of these players have been through it every year. A lot of other clubs have not been through that. The experience in our squad really helps.”

Giggs...In 90 Seconds

Ryan Giggs was recently described as ‘an incredible human being’, so it was no surprise he was kind of enough to stop by for a quick chat for a few random questions…

Hello Ryan. The boss says that, to still be at the top of the game, you’re an ‘an incredible human being’. Do you feel like one?
[Laughs] Not really, no! I feel lucky to be playing with good players. I try to look after myself – you’ve got to at my age. I still feel great and I just enjoy the challenge of playing every week, and I hope I can carry on for a while longer yet.

Who is the best player you’ve played with?
I’ve got to say Scholesy.

What about the best trainer?
Scholesy again.

And who’s the worst trainer?
He’ll get the hump with me, but I’ll go for Pally [Gary Pallister]. He’d take it easy in training and then go out in a game and be brilliant.

What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen in training?
[Pauses] You’d think after all this time I could think of something – my memory is going! I’ll go for Jim Ryan always getting nutmegged.

We hear you’re pretty lively on the dancefloor, but who would you class as United’s best dancer?
I read Michael Owen said I was the best dancer… but I’ll go for Nani, he’s got some moves.

And who’s the worst?
Nev [Gary Neville].

Most intelligent?
Nev.

Biggest moaner?
It’s a hat-trick for Nev!

Which player has made you laugh more than any other?
Nicky Butt. You never knew what was coming next.

Most vain?
Cristiano or Becks - they spent a long time in front of the dressing room mirror.

You’re the boss and you’re picking a five-a-side team of players you’ve played with. Who’s in?
Scholesy, Keaney, Eric… this is a really hard one. I’ll go for Ole and Rio or Vida. I can’t choose between them.

You’ve travelled the world, but is there anywhere you’d like to return to when you stop playing?
I’ve always liked going to Eastern Europe. I’ve been all over – Moscow, Volgograd, Kiev, Prague, Budapest… and you see a change every time you go back. I remember the first time I went to Istanbul [in 1993] and the animosity towards us with the ‘Welcome to Hell’ banners. We went back in 2009 and it was totally different, a really lovely place. There are some beautiful cities in Eastern Europe and having only seen most of them from the team coach it would be nice to see a bit more.

Wolves End Man. United Unbeaten Run

Below-par Manchester United fell to a first league defeat of the season as bottom-of-the-table Wolves proved that relegation is not a formality for them.

United led after three minutes as Nani drilled home inside the near post after turning George Elokobi inside-out.

But Elokobi headed in well soon after with United's defence sleeping as Matt Jarvis executed a short-corner routine.

Kevin Doyle then glanced in just before the break, after which the visitors failed to carve out any clear chances.

Not only will Wolves' hopes of avoiding relegation soar with a fine win that puts them only two points behind 17th-placed Wigan with a game in hand, but United's Premier League title rivals will be seriously buoyed now that their daunting 29-match unbeaten run is over.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson looked livid with his United team as they failed to usurp the record of his 1999 Treble winners with a display that deteriorated rapidly after Nani's early opener.

Though Wolves remain bottom by virtue of an inferior goal difference to Birmingham and West Ham, they have now beaten five of the top seven - United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Sunderland - this season.

United appeared to pay the price for the absence of in-form England captain Rio Ferdinand, whose calf injury suffered in the warm-up meant Jonny Evans was pressed into action.

Instant drama ensued as Wolves appealed for a penalty as Brazilian right-back Rafael swept away danger from Matt Jarvis with his upper body after 40 seconds.

But United took the lead soon after as Nani showcased the superior side to his inconsistent game.

Breaking into the right side of Wolves' penalty area, he played with Elokobi over and over while ignoring both Berbatov and Rooney as they lurked in the centre with arms aloft.

In a flash of movement he then sent Elokobi the wrong way before cutting inside to power a ruthless left foot shot past Hennessey at the Welshman's near post.

The visitors could have added an instant second, but Rooney screwed an ugly attempt high into Hennessey's arms after Berbatov cleverly found the unmarked England striker.

Yet United may have paid the price for overconfidence as they completely lost their concentration after 10 minutes to let Wolves back in.

As Jarvis took a quick corner Rafael jogged into his penalty area with his back to the ball with United utterly disorganised.

And when it was quickly returned to Jarvis, with United failing to mark up properly, his clean cross was met with a full-blooded header by former Colchester defender Elokobi - who had to stretch his neck back to add power - with Edwin Van der Sar well beaten at full stretch.

Rooney then just failed to find Berbatov as the strong wind took his searching long pass out of his strike partner's stride.

Berbatov, who has scored 13 goals in his past nine Premier League appearances, then brilliantly found space in box with series of effective flicks but his weak shot caused Hennessey no trouble.

But, after Nani went close with a 28th-minute free kick, Wolves dug deep into their resources to turn the tide as they began to control the rest of the half.

Impressive debutant Jamie O'Hara, on loan from Tottenham, nearly squeezed the ball home at the near post but alert 40-year-old goalkeeper Van der Sar improvised to kick the ball away for a corner.

Nemad Milijas almost put Wolves ahead when his 37th-minute free-kick from 20 yards nearly crept inside stranded Van der Sar's far post, but the wicked deflection off Vidic's head took it just wide.

But his free kick three minutes later, from wide on the right, proved a crucial assist.

Wolves team-mates Kevin Doyle and Elokobi both battled to get a headed touch as the ball flew into the net, although Doyle insisted his was the last as they celebrated in front of the joyous home fans at Molineux.

United did have a chance just before the break but, with Ferguson fuming on the sidelines, Nani headed Rafael's right-wing cross over the bar.

Midfield veteran Paul Scholes replaced ineffective Michael Carrick for the second half.

But, for once, his enduring class failed to instigate a real sense of urgency for United although he did come close to connecting with an early low cross.

Wolves, however, looked just as likely to extend their lead as United wasted the ball when well-placed in advanced areas.

Jarvis was a constant threat, and jinked well inside Rafael in the penalty area to work a smart pull-back for O'Hara.

But the midfielder needed more power behind his side-footer as Vidic cleared the danger.

Rafael then needed medical attention as he suffered an alarming-looking dislocated finger, although he was able to continue after it was reset.

Chris Smalling came on for injured Evans, before Mexican forward Javier Hernandez replaced Berbatov.

But Hernandez - United's late saviour on many occasions this season - could not work his magic as a substitute once more.

After O'Hara was replaced by Kevin Foley, seemingly to protect him from receiving a second yellow card, Nani then showed the more frustrating side of his character as he shot wildly into the crowd with a host of team-mates well placed.

And United's desperation became clear when Scholes was booked for handling - rather than heading - a late attempt to steer a cross past Hennessey, although the keeper made sure of the save anyway as Wolves sealed the three points despite five minutes of added time.


The United players were understandably dejected at full-time

Neville Salutes Sir Alex

In the final part of Gary Neville's interview with MUTV, the defender talks about the influence of the boss...


What would you like to say about Sir Alex and his influence?
He’ll be regarded as the greatest football manager this game has ever seen. For me to have played under him for that long is incredible. He’s given me my opportunity. He always said he would do that if we were good enough. He’s always given players opportunities. I owe him everything. He put in place the vision of what Matt Busby created 50 years ago – bringing young players through, local lads who love the club, the heartbeat of the club. He could mould them into the players he wanted them to be. You can never replace what local lads bring, but we require other skills. So the foreign players complement those attributes. The local lads are the foundation. We’ve got that right through the squad. You mould these players into Manchester United people.

Over these past 20 years, can you say that there’s a best team you’ve played in?
The 1994 team - the power and strength and physique of that team was incredible; the 1999 team, obviously; and the 2006/07 team when Ronaldo and Rooney came of age and Vidic and Evra settled into the team, that was a really special six to eight months. I got injured towards the end of that season, but I thought we were brilliant and it didn’t surprise me that team went on to win the European Cup. That was probably as enjoyable as it could be. But for my injury I’d probably have gone on to play in that team, but those three stand out. For achievement, you’d have to say the 1999 team.
You mentioned the injury in 2007, against Bolton. You were out for a long time, was that the beginning of the end?
You’d have to say it was. My touch wasn’t great and Gary Speed smashed me, which I’d have done to him in the same position! I didn’t come back for 12 months. The ankle was probably five or six months, then I got knock-on injuries. To miss a year at that age, football moves on so quickly. That was a period where Ronado, Rooney, then players like Rafael eventually, came in, and the team moves on. You come back in and you’re getting used to it again. In the next two seasons I think I played 25-30 games in each, but you're not used as much. That happened to the other older players, but playing regularly had always been my way. Playing regularly in the back four brings confidence and fitness. But because of the emergence of other players and as I was picking up silly injuries that put me out for three or four weeks, in some ways it probably was the beginning of the end – even though I enjoyed last season and the season before that.

You’ve played with some incredible players – is it possible to say there is a ‘best player’ you played with?
It’s difficult to do that. There are two still playing now: Giggsy and Scholesy. How can you separate those two? Then you talk about the most inspirational players, like Roy Keane and Bryan Robson. Then Cristiano Ronaldo for those two seasons – that level of performance was just incredible. Eric Cantona, in the season we won the double and came back from that ban, he scored in six or seven in the run-in. Then there’s Peter Schmeichel. It’s so difficult to pick one and I’ve missed players out there: Pally, Jaap Stam, Becks… I’m just privileged to have played with so many great players.

It’s been said there are more naturally gifted footballers than yourself, but that you used every bit of your talent and also the sheer force of your determination to create a very successful career. Is that a fair way of putting it?
You’re being polite there, aren’t you? [Laughs] It’s fair to say I relied on qualities that weren’t naturally technical or skilful to get to where I got to. I’d like to think there’s an element of intelligence, that I knew where to be on the football pitch, and physically I could run up and down all day. Mentally, I'd do whatever it took to win a game for Manchester United. I had a determination to win, to make sure we won, and a will to succeed. That was my greatest asset, my fitness and strength of character. It takes all types of characters. Some players can drop their performance by 3% and still play. With me, it was 100% or nothing. There was no inbetween. The percent below 100% was pretty average to be honest with you. So everything had to be right for me: fitness, mentality, no injuries, match sharpness. I’ve always had to prepare to my absolute maximum. When you start getting injuries and you then don’t get the run of games because other players come in, you don’t get that fluidity. I relied upon that. You see someone like Giggs now, he could probably play until he’s 45. But he’s a different player to what he was when he was 17. You could argue he’s better, but he’s different. Scholesy too. Scholesy was a centre-forward or marauding midfielder for ten years. Now he controls the whole pace of the game from deep in midfield. They’ve adapted and have incredible skill and ability. I don’t have those natural skills to rely on. My game was based on fitness, determination, being aggressive and physical. When some of those attributes leave you, it has a big effect.

You’ve lived your life under the microscope; presumably that’s not something you’ll miss?
When I played I was in the spotlight, but nobody really knows what I do at home. Nobody knows where I go to eat – apart from the people in the restaurant, maybe – or who I socialise with. My life is quite private. The glare of publicity on the field, that’s the adrenalin, the buzz of 76,000 fans watching you every week. That’s what you live for playing for United. I’ll miss that.

What does the future hold for you?
In the immediate future I’ll go in to United until the end of the season and do some coaching; I’ve got my coaching badges to complete. My mindset isn’t to go into coaching or management full-time yet. For 20 years I’ve been going into a football club and I definitely want to try and continue my relationship with this club, even if it’s just as a fan. I’ll probably not do things that are full-time. I want 12 months to gather myself. I don’t want to rush into a new relationship too quickly! [Laughs] I want to ease off and relax. I’m not that relaxed a person. I need to chill out a little bit. I do want to continue my relationship with the club. United have given me everything that I’ve got in my life.

How do you want United fans to remember you on the field?
[Celebrating against Liverpool] is perhaps the thing that comes to people's minds straight away. But to be part of teams that are successful is as much as I’ve ever wanted. How much I contributed is down to people’s opinion. But to be part of it and to have won things is what you come into it for as a kid. You come into football as a kid, one, because something grabs you, for me it was United; secondly, you love playing football; then when you get to a level where you want to play for the first-team, you want to win trophies. That’s what matters, being part of teams that mean something or that people are going to remember. That is how I’d like to be remembered, that I was part of successful football teams and contributed to them.

That celebration against Liverpool seemed to resonate with fans though…
People say that was pre-meditated, but it’s not, it's instinctive. The best match I ever played in - because it was the last what I'd call old-fashioned football match - was the semi-final at Arsenal in 1999. It was a night-game, a semi-final replay and everything happened. The fans were on the pitch holding players up after the game. To me, that was probably the greatest match of my life. It was probably the last real football match I played in. Now because of security and health and safety, and all the restrictions, those days are becoming more difficult to create. For me, United score a goal and you celebrate. If you’re a fan, you celebrate; if you’re a player, you celebrate. If we didn’t celebrate a goal the manager would go mad. Don’t get me wrong, he didn’t tell me to go over and celebrate in front of opposition fans, but it’s instinctive that if United score I will celebrate.