Edwin's Faith In Reds' Character

Edwin van der Sar has praised United's strength of character ahead of the latest test of the Reds' title credentials.

Sir Alex Ferguson's trophy-chasers head to Newcastle on Tuesday with the chance to extend the lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League to nine points.

The veteran keeper, who is retiring at the end of the season, admits the away form earlier in the campaign dented the team's confidence but knows the players are now in the right frame of mind for the run-in, despite missing out on a place in the FA Cup final.

"We had been a bit scrappy in the first half of the season," he explained. "We conceded some last-minute goals. It doesn't do your self-confidence a lot of good. Of course, you need mental strength in certain games when you keep conceding in the last minute or the ball is not going in. It can do something with you.

"It shows the strength of character and the belief this manager has in the quality of this team. You get confidence when you get on a roll. You are not struggling and you get your players back. There are goals in the team and, defensively, you are sound. It is a good feeling."

The Dutchman admits the return of injured trio Rio Ferdinand, Antonio Valencia and Ji-sung Park has provided a timely boost to the squad.

"The manager has a certain way he wants to play and there are certain players he would choose when he selects his team," said van der Sar.

"When Rio or Valencia or Park comes back from injury, it gives you a great feeling. You know you are a strong line-up. The ones who came in did brilliantly, but the experience Rio can bring, together with Vida [Nemanja Vidic], is very important. It is a strong intent of our qualities.

"I enjoy playing with them very much. It is great to have two quality defenders in front of you. It makes my job a little bit easier, also with the directions I give to them and the way the team is balanced out.

"If somebody goes forward, Michael Carrick knows he has to stay back. If Patrice [Evra] goes away, John O'Shea knows he has to stay. It is a great understanding that we have at the moment."