Park To Reap The Benefits

Ji-sung Park admits that he will feel the benefits of international retirement when the Reds take on Liverpool at Anfield on 15 October.

United have a fortnight's break between Saturday's fixture with Norwich and the trip to Merseyside but a number of players will be away with their respective countries.

However, Park called time on his South Korea career earlier this year and will be fresh and raring to go when he takes on a team he has enjoyed success against in the past.

Speaking during an exclusive ManUtd.com webchat, he said: "I don't need to travel too far away now during the season. When there is an international break, I can stay and train in Manchester, this makes me fresher for the next game.

"It's a long season and the international matches meant I had to travel long distances. Now I can save my health physically. I think it's quite a big thing for me at my age."

Park's diving header against Liverpool in March, 2010, the winner that took United back to the top of the table, is his personal favourite goal of his career.

"My most memorable goal is maybe the winning goal against Liverpool or the one against Chelsea, both at Old Trafford," he explained. "One of those goals would be my best. Actually, with the one against Chelsea in the Champions League, even if we had drawn the match, we would have got through. So I'll choose the Liverpool goal."

Evans Passing On Advice

Jonny Evans admits he is starting to feel like a senior figure at United as he plays alongside the likes of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones.

The centre-back was in excellent form before picking up an ankle injury that ruled him out of the draws with Stoke and Basel and it's expected he will push for a return when fit again.

"I guess I'm still classed in the young bracket but I do have a bit of experience," he told United Review, the official matchday magazine. "And, when I'm on the pitch, I want to try and help some of the newer faces.

"It's my fourth season at the club since I went out on loan at Sunderland, so I feel like there's advice I should be trying to pass on to the young guys. I can't just sit back and continue to let other people show me the ropes. I've been here long enough to be beyond that point now."

Evans is happy to thrive on the battle for his place, although he prefers to remain out of the spotlight.

"There's always been stiff competition here and Phil Jones joining the club certainly hasn't made me think any differently," he added.

"I've just made sure I've got my head down and I've worked really hard.

"I've never been one for craving attention. If I know that I've given 100 per cent, then that's all that matters. I don't really listen to what other people might be saying - good or bad - about my performances. Of course, the opinion that really counts is the manager's."

Robson: Game Has Changed

Bryan Robson believes the lack of box-to-box midfielders in today's game is largely due to a tactical shift.

The Old Trafford ambassador, who watched training ahead of the Basel tie alongside Sir Alex, was the master of dominating all over the pitch, making last-ditch tackles in his own area and ghosting in to score goals at the other end.

Roy Keane revealed in his autobiography that his former team-mate told him to adapt his game after seriously injuring his knee by performing in a holding role to dictate the tempo of games. Robson feels it is sensible in the modern era to adopt such a conservative approach and it also reflects the thinking of coaches at the highest level.

"I think that when you get older, you do tend to try and save your energy by sitting in midfield," explained the former Reds captain in an exclusive interview with ManUtd.com. "Also, tactically, a lot of coaches, especially the ones who have come in from Europe, have always liked this sitting midfielder to be really totally defensive but also to be a really good passer of the ball.

"You get that these days rather than box-to-box midfielders, which we had in the 1970s and 1980s. If you look back at people like John Wark, who scored a number of goals for Liverpool and Ipswich, we had quite a lot of players like that."

Bryan Robson was speaking at the filming of the official Manchester United Greatest Ever XI DVD.

Draw Is Like A Defeat

Michael Carrick offered "no excuses" as the Manchester United players reflected on the loss of two Champions League points at Old Trafford.

The final scoreline of 3-3 seemed far-fetched when the Reds were 2-0 up at the interval, even if visitors FC Basel had been lively at times in the first period. But while Carrick says his side were warned against complacency - "We said at half-time that the game wasn’t over" - the hosts still contrived to toss away the advantage as Alexander Frei (2) and his namesake Fabien Frei fired Basel into a surprise lead.

"It was a bit of a shock to find ourselves 3-2 down after being 2-0 up," said Carrick. "We’ve no excuses, we threw it away. It’s not like us at all."

Finding a goal at the death was more like United, of course - "What we expect of ourselves really is to keep going. We believe that if we get a chance, we’ll score," said Carrick.

"Thankfully Ashley Young put it away and we might even have nicked a win in the end when Berba had half a chance. But that was probably asking too much."

Young's last-gasp goal - so typical of the Reds - perfectly illustrated Carrick's next point that the summer signing from Aston Villa has fully acclimatised to life at Old Trafford.

"He’s settled in quick and bought into everything about the club and how we approach things," praised Carrick. "He’s got bags of character, he’s kept going tonight and got his reward."

The 3-3 draw with FC Basel leaves United with only two points from the opening two games but the onus on the Reds to win the next two matches, away and at home to Champions League newcomers Otelul Galati, was always there insists Carrick.

"[The situation in Group C] is not the end of the world but it's not ideal either," the midfielder admitted. "We’ve given ourselves a lot of hard work but we’re capable of doing it.

"We were looking to win those two Galati games anyway so if we can approach them as we normally do then we’re confident we can pull through.

"Tonight we'll take a draw yet it still feels a bit like a defeat. But we’ll not get too down about it, we’ll move on and bounce back. We have to."

Fergie: I Feared The Worst

Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he "feared the worst" during United's entertaining 3-3 draw with FC Basel at Old Trafford.

Despite surviving a couple of scares in defence in the opening stages of the Champions League Group C clash, the Reds looked to be cruising to victory after two goals in a minute from Danny Welbeck put the home side 2-0 ahead, after 17 minutes.

The visitors were not about to give up though, and the game was completely turned on its head around the hour-mark when goals from Fabian Frei and Alexander Frei made it 2-2.

The latter netted a second from the penalty spot 14 minutes from time before Ashley Young stole in at the far post to head home an equaliser in the final minute.

"I feared the worst," Sir Alex told MUTV afterwards. "Some our forward play in the first half was absolutely fantastic, but there was always that lax attitude at the back and they were creating chances.

"We were fortunate not to have lost a couple of goals before half-time. Equally though we could have scored four or five.

"We said to the players at half-time you can make this game easy or hard for yourselves. And we made it hard. The attacking instinct in the team meant we got really exposed in midfield and at the back.

"There's sometimes a tendancy to enjoy that [attacking] part, particularly at home, but in big game situations you would anticipate better defending and better concentration.

"Yes, we've been making changes to the back four, too many times maybe at the moment, but nonetheless they can do better than that."

Despite being disappointed with his side's defensive play, the boss was full of praise for the Reds' resilience and attitude to salvage a point.

"When you look at the nature of our club it's not a surprise that we came back, and we could have won it," he said.

"Berbatov had a great chance [in injury time]. If he'd have squared the ball it was a tap-in for Nani.

"The players realised they had to rescue the game and their character got them there."

Mixed Emotions For Welbeck

Danny Welbeck admitted to harbouring mixed emotions after United's 3-3 draw with FC Basel on Tuesday night.

The young striker, in his first start since picking up a hamstring injury against Arsenal in late August, scored twice to fire the Reds into an early 2-0 lead. But the Swiss visitors rallied to first equalise and then go ahead, before Ashley Young snatched a draw with a late header.

"To get two goals in the Champions League, I'm over the moon with that," Welbeck told Sky Sports. "But it's a team game and I'm disappointed.

"We went into half-time 2-0 up and Manchester United should be finishing teams off. It's just not like us [to let teams back into games].

"In the second half we didn't start as bright as we should have. They gradually worked their way into the game and pulled two goals back quickly."

Welbeck praised Basel's approach to the game and says the Reds struggled to deal with their patient, passing football.

"As good teams do, they came out and passed the ball well," he said. "They played it from the back well and we found it difficult.

"We're really disappointed with the result today. But we just have to get back into training and get on with it."

Late Drama For United At Old Trafford

Two quick-fire braces in either half – United's in the first, Basel's in the second – lit up an entertaining encounter at Old Trafford that swung both ways before eventually ending even thanks to a 90th-minute Ashley Young equaliser.

When Danny Welbeck sent United 2-0 up after just 17 minutes, United looked to be cruising. But as Basel stayed true to their footballing principles, attacked in numbers and pressed the Reds high up the pitch, they created chances and, with 14 minutes to play, had taken three of them.

That sent United in search of a late equaliser and, in the 90th minute, Young arrived at the far post to head home substitute Nani's cross and rescue a valuable point.

Sir Alex was visibly relieved to have snatched a draw at the final whistle, and yet the Reds had been two goals to the good with barely a quarter-of-an-hour on the clock. That said, the warning signs had been there. Basel even fashioned the first chance of the game. Midfielder Fabian Frei found space beyond Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones but blazed over from 18 yards when clean through after only five minutes.

Young then provided Antonio Valencia with a gift as inviting as a box of Swiss chocolates when he twisted and turned on the left flank before curling a sumptuous ball to the back post. The Ecuadorian's header, from all of two yards, flashed agonisingly across the face of goal.

Basel custodian Yann Sommer then did well to hold Young's firm volley, hit into the ground, before Welbeck netted the first of his double on 16 minutes. It wasn't the prettiest goal Welbeck, or United, will score this season. But they all count and Danny's scuffed shot from 12 yards, which appeared to dribble goalwards in slow-motion before spinning in off the post, was just reward for a bright start.

A minute later it was 2-0. Giggs, who'd calmly laid the ball back to Welbeck for the opener, provided a rather more incisive pass this time. Collecting the ball in the inside left channel about 30 yards from goal, the Welshman advanced briefly before looking up and picking out Welbeck with a low cross that succeeded in cutting out two Basel defenders and leaving Danny with a simple side-footed finish at the back post. Basel boss Thorsten Fink will have been furious with the defending, but Giggs, in his 750th United start, showed his worth once more on the European stage.

To their credit, Basel kept plugging away and both Alexander Frei and Jacques Zoua wasted presentable chances to reduce the deficit before the interval. Neither manager made changes at half-time and both sides flew out of the traps. Young had the ball in the net after a matter of minutes but was correctly ruled offside, while Phil Jones and then David De Gea had to be at their sharpest to repel big Basel forward Marco Streller.

De Gea's denial – an instinctive save from close range with an outstretched leg – was most impressive and further showcased the supreme shot-stopping ability the Spaniard has displayed in recent weeks.

There was little he could do about Basel's opener, though. Indeed, the stopper made a smart save to get down to Streller's near-post header from a corner on the right wing. But when the ball bounced out to Fabian Frei the 22-year-old lashed it home from 12 yards to send the travelling fans wild.

They were cheering again two minutes later when Basel's other Frei, Alexander, found himself unmarked in the penalty area and with plenty of time to calmly nod Fabian's curling centre back across goal and into the net.

Suddenly Basel were level. In truth, they had never really looked beaten, even at 2-0 down. The Swiss side had played without fear – a rare trait in visiting teams at Old Trafford – and they were rewarded yet further on 75 minutes when referee Paolo Tagliavento pointed to the spot after Valencia tangled clumsily with Streller. Alexander Frei stepped up and buried the kick to send Basel in front, but this is Manchester United and drama lurks around every corner.

True enough, after probing and prodding for what seemed an age, the Reds broke through, Ashley Young heading in at the far post with only seconds of normal time to spare. United had earned a dramatic point.


Last gasp goal: Ashley Young rescuing a point for United at Old Trafford

Ferdinand Answers Fans' Questions

Rio Ferdinand recently took the time to answer a few questions posted by United fans on Talking Reds and the club’s official Facebook page, facebook.com/manchesterunited ...

What’s the most challenging thing about being a player at Manchester United? - Red Devil Mank, Talking Reds

It can take time to get used to the pressure that comes with pulling on the United shirt. I remember when I was at West Ham and we'd go to somewhere like Old Trafford; before the game, we'd be delighted with a draw. But here, even if you’re losing 1-0 with just 10 minutes left, we always think about winning.

Who is the most difficult forward you’ve had to defend against? - Lynette Wilson, Facebook

My former Manchester United team-mate Louis Saha, now at Everton of course. He’s quick, he's strong, hes aggressive, he hits the ball cleanly with both feet, he’s great in the air… if I was building a prototype of a perfect number 9 then I’d look to Louis.

What was said by the boss after the defeat to Barcelona and how do you think we will do this year if we meet them again? - Rob Williams, Talking Reds

We never go into specifics about what Sir Alex says in the dressing room – that just doesn’t happen.

But the gist of it was that we had to learn from it and that Barcelona had set a new bar in terms of the level we had to get to and it was now up to us to reach that bar and get beyond it. That’s the goal now.

Are you planning to go to any events at the 2012 Olympics in London? - Muktar Nur, Facebook

I'd love to go to the 100 metres athletics final. It would be great to see Usain Bolt go through the finish line in about 8.5 seconds!

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones have really impressed the fans. How highly do you rate them? - Tom Gittins, Talking Reds

They’re top quality players and they can both play in different positions. They can both play at right-back and Phil can also play in midfield a little bit. They are both great players with great futures ahead of them.

Boss: TV Has Too Much Power

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes television has too much power over English football.

In an exclusive interview with BBC North West Tonight, Ferguson said TV controls aspects of the game because of the vast amount of money it provides.

He claimed clubs had lost control over fixtures and this had had a detrimental effect on those competing in Europe.

"When you shake hands with the devil you have to pay the price," he said. "Television is God at the moment."

He added: "It shows itself quite clearly because when you see the fixture lists come out now, they can pick and choose whenever they want the top teams on television.

"You get some ridiculous situations when you're playing on Wednesday night in Europe and then at lunchtime the following Saturday. You ask any manager if they would pick that themselves and there'd be no chance."

And clubs, the 69-year-old Scot added, are not even getting the kind of money they deserve from TV. He said the Premier League sold their product to 200 countries and "when you think of that I don't think we get enough money".

Former Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick agreed that football is now "super-reliant on television" but suggested that TV revenue had helped facilitate United's success under Ferguson.

"Sir Alex's comments always have to be taken seriously - he is a very wise and experienced football man," Barwick told BBC Sport.

"But on this one, I do think Manchester United have almost had a lion's share of TV revenue over a period of time and it has helped build a fantastic stadium in Old Trafford and helped build Sir Alex's teams with star players.

"Manchester United will always do well in the television market because a lot of people follow them.

"The Premier League should be applauded for the number of countries it has got the game to. It has been a massive success story."

The Premier League's television rights deal was last renewed in February 2009 when Sky reportedly paid in excess of £1.6bn to show five 23-game packages from 2010-13. Irish-based broadcaster Setanta paid £159m for one bundle of 69 matches over the three years. This package was later taken over by ESPN.

The record deal equates to clubs earning, on average, £4.3m for each game shown live on television.

In addition, overseas TV deals earned Premier League clubs just over £17m each last season.

Under the new deal, United earned more than £60m from television last season - a combination of fees for having their matches shown live, and prize money based upon league position.

So far this season, the champions have appeared in six televised league games, and are scheduled to appear three more times before the end of November.

United have the benefit of home fixtures after each of their scheduled Champions League group matches, while their current nearest rivals at the top of the Premier League table, Manchester City, must play away from home in each league fixture after their own matches in Europe's premier club competition.

Reds' Resilience Pleases Fletcher

Darren Fletcher was satisfied with the pluck and moxie on show in United's battling draw at Stoke City.

While the Scot conceded he and his colleagues were disappointed to surrender a lead and two points, he saw enough positives in the performance to be far from dispirited.

"From being in a winning position and losing a goal from a set-piece obviously we're disappointed not to get all three," Fletch told MUTV. "It's a difficult place to come. There's always a great atmosphere and you know you're in for a physical match, but I think the lads stood up to it today and battled well.

"You've got to enjoy and relish coming here. If you come here with any fear then that will be evident in your performance. You know what to expect, you prepare for it in training and you try your best to deal with it.

"A lot of work goes into preparing for today because Stoke do a lot of work on their set-pieces and they're a real threat from them. If you don't do your homework and prepare well you can be caught badly and I think in general we dealt with it quite well today.

"Ultimately, I think we maybe gave away too many set-pieces and corners and Peter Crouch is going to take advantage of one of them and that's the only disappointing thing we can learn from."

Fletcher, who looks sharper with each outing after the virus which had decimated his involvement during 2011, played a part in United's opener, and he was full of praise for goalscorer Nani.

"It was a fantastic goal and it was the first point in the game where we showed a bit of patience and kept the ball," he said. "Nani played a little one-two and went on and finished it nicely. He's been in great form this season, we've all seen that and long may it continue."

Carling Cup 4th Round Draw: United Drawn Against Aldershot Town

United have been drawn away to League Two side Aldershot Town in the Carling Cup fourth round.

The Reds beat Leeds United 3-0 in the third round at Elland Road last Tuesday and now face a trip to the Recreation Ground to take on Dean Holdsworth men, who have already seen off West Ham, Carlisle and Rochdale in the competition so far.

The tie will be played the week beginning Monday 24 October.

FULL DRAW
Wolves v Man City
Cardiff v Burnley
Blackburn v Newcastle
Arsenal v Bolton
Stoke v Liverpool
Aldershot v United
Crystal Palace v Southampton
Everton v Chelsea

Boss: We Played Like Champions

Sir Alex Ferguson said his side played like "real champions" in the battling 1-1 draw at Stoke City on Saturday.

The Reds had taken the lead through Nani's brilliant solo effort, but Stoke have already shown this season, against Chelsea and Liverpool, that the visit of the big teams holds no fears for them and they ensured David De Gea had a busy afternoon in the United goal.

Peter Crouch drew the home side level on 52 minutes and in the end Sir Alex felt a point was a fair result.

"I was pleased with the performance from the lads - they battled really hard and played like real champions," he told MUTV afterwards.

"If Stoke were going to score it was probably going to be from a set-piece. They've got some big lads in their team and they do keep you under pressure that way.

"In terms of the attacking part we showed some good play and maybe should have scored more. We've always done well here, but all the changes we had to make today [with injuries to Evans, Hernandez and Rooney] maybe just unsettled us a bit for parts of the game.

"A draw is probably a fair result. It's a difficult place to come to."

The manager was particularly pleased with his goalkeeper's display after a string of top class saves.

"He had a couple of great saves in the first half and looked very confident." added the boss. "He has terrific composure, nothing disturbs him. He just sailed through the game."

United Held By Battling Stoke

Manchester United relinquished their 100% Premier League record after an absorbing contest at Stoke.

United opened the scoring through Nani, who exchanged passes with Darren Fletcher, before finishing beyond Asmir Begovic with aplomb.

David De Gea pulled off a couple of outstanding saves to keep United ahead but Stoke levelled in the 52nd minute through Peter Crouch's emphatic header.

Ryan Giggs squandered a great late chance as the points were shared.

United remain ahead of Manchester City by virtue of superior goal difference - but this is a game Sir Alex Ferguson's side could easily have lost.

Wave after wave of pulsating attacks had both sides hanging on in a helter-skelter second half.

A late United winner would have been harsh on Stoke who acquitted themselves well against a United side that have swept all before them this season.

But the miss will disappoint Giggs, who sliced his side-foot volley wide after Nani's floated cross had picked him out.

United were without Wayne Rooney due to a hamstring injury, and then lost Jonny Evans in the warm-up, meaning Antonio Valencia was drafted in to play at right-back.

A feisty start at the Britannia Stadium saw United dealt an early blow when Javier Hernandez, scorer of three goals in his previous two games against Stoke, was forced off injured.

The incident also should have seen United awarded a penalty after Hernandez, who was clean through on goal, was nudged in the back by Woodgate, sending him clattering into Begovic.

Having suffered a head injury on United's summer tour of the United States and a knock to his shin against Chelsea last week, Hernandez is now back on the treatment table with a dead leg.

Tackles were flying in from all angles and referee Peter Walton showed Glenn Whelan a yellow card for a reckless lunge on Patrice Evra - with Ferguson barking for further punishment.

But a patched up United drew first blood with their first clear-cut chance in the 27th minute.

A one-two with Fletcher allowed Nani to shift the ball onto his left foot before caressing his shot beyond Begovic.

Within a minute of Nani's goal United had David de Gea to thank for preserving their lead, with the Spaniard making a stunning reflex save from Andy Wilkinson's rasping drive, tipping the ball onto the bar.

Stoke continued to dictate in the minutes before half-time but another outstanding stop from the £18m goalkeeper denied Walters, getting down low to make a fingertip save to his right.

The cut and thrust of the first half dissolved as Stoke pinned United back during the opening minutes of the match and made their pressure pay in the 51st minute.

Matthew Etherington whipped in an unplayable corner from the right, Crouch darted between Phil Jones and Rio Ferdinand and leapt high to head in.

Two minutes later United's flaky defence was exposed by Jermaine Pennant, whose flighted cross found Crouch unmarked six yards out, with De Gea making a crucial save with his right elbow.

United were rocking and a Mark Wilson piledriver in the 68th minute stung the palms of De Gea.

A breathless second half saw the pendulum swing one way then the other before United were claiming handball against Ryan Shawcross, who appeared to block Evra's shot with the back of his upper arm - but the appeals proved in vain.

Crouch could have clinched the winner when he chested down Pennant's cross from the right, but dragged his shot wide.

Giggs' late miss left him staring to the heavens in despair as United surrender what was the last remaining 100% record in England.


Nani celebrates his goal with Berbatov

United Eye Scottish Starlet

Skysports.com understands that Manchester United are hot on the trail of Dundee United starlet Scott Allan.

The 19-year-old midfielder has made his breakthrough at Tannadice this season and a number of clubs are already queuing up to catch him in action.

He is also a Scotland Under 21 international, with a series of excellent displays on the international scene leading to speculation back in August about his future, with Newcastle mentioned before deadline day.

Now skysports.com understands that Manchester United are one of the clubs keeping tabs on him.

Martin Ferguson attended Dundee United's clash with Dunfermline last month with the purpose of catching Allan in action, but on the day he did not make it off the bench.

But with Sir Alex dispatching his brother, and most trusted scout north of the border, it is a clear indication that Allan has made a big impact.

It is also believed that Allan is yet to agree a new contract at Tannadice, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.

Should Allan decide to leave and move to England then the Tangerines would only be due minimal compensation.

Old Firm giants Rangers and Celtic are also well aware of Allan, but the chance of a move to the Premier League could be too much for any young Scot to turn down.

United boss Peter Houston has already confirmed talks are on-going over a new deal, and they remain hopeful he could be persuaded that his short-term future is best served on Tayside.

United Sign Mister Potato

Sir Alex and six of his first-team stars joined together at Old Trafford to welcome the club's newest global partner, Mister Potato, to the United family.

Malaysian company Mamee-Double Decker owns more than 30 per cent of the snack food business in Malaysia, with Mister Potato the most popular snack brand in the country. As part of the deal, Mamee Noodles will also become an official partner in Asia, Oceania and the Middle East.

In time, it's anticipated canisters of the Mister Potato crisps will be sold inside the stadium on matchdays. For now, though, the product will feature new packaging in Asia, featuring imagery of some of United's biggest stars.

Mamee hope the partnership with Manchester United will help the company double its revenue by 2014. Chief Executive Officer Datuk Pang Tee Chew said: "A substantial portion of United fans are in Asia and we are looking to solidify our position as the number one stacked chip brand in the region."

Journalists and VIPs from Malaysia flew to Old Trafford for a special launch to mark the beginning of the three-year deal.

Speaking at the event, Sir Alex Ferguson recalled the club's most recent visit to Malaysia, in 2009.

"We look at Malaysia as one of our main areas of support," he said. "We had 35,000 people turn up to an open training session!

"The loyalty the fans there have shown us over many years has been fantastic and I hope this is the start of another long association. I'm sure our partnership with Mamee will be 100 per cent."

Michael Owen, Chris Smalling, Ashley Young, Mame Biram Diouf, Ji-sung Park and Antonio Valencia also attended the launch. They chatted, signed autographs and posed for pictures with the guests.

Mister Potato

* no.1 potato snack in Malaysia
* exported to more than 80 countries
* more than 40million canisters sold every year

Mamee-Double Decker

* more than 40 years in business
* three generations of leadership
* no.1 Malaysian food and beverage brand

Fryers Targets Reds Return

Ezekiel Fryers is already plotting his return to United’s first team, just a few hours after his official Reds debut ended in victory over rivals Leeds at Elland Road.

The 19-year old defender, who was one of 11 changes made by Sir Alex Ferguson for the Carling Cup third round clash on Tuesday, put in an impressive shift against Simon Grayson’s side before leaving the action on 80 minutes with cramp.

And having enjoyed a sample of first team duties, Fryers explained to MUTV why he is hungry for more: “It was really good to come up to the first team, it was a massive experience and it was great to play against Leeds at Elland Road.

“It was a massive night for me. It was quality and a massive step up, so I was happy to get 80 minutes in.

"I had to come off with a bit of cramp so now it’s all about working hard with the Reserves and getting fitter so that I’m ready for whenever these chances might come again.”

Fryers was joined at Elland Road by fellow debutants Larnell Cole and Paul Pogba, who both stepped off the bench to produce accomplished, steady performances against noteworthy Championship opposition which was a comforting point for the Reds' defender.

“It was good to have Larnell and Pogba alongside me when they came on," he added. "We have been playing together for a long time, so this was massive for all of us.”

The Evolution Of Luis Nani

Having evolved into an integral component of United's attacking arsenal, Nani is central to Sir Alex Ferguson's plans for the future. The Portuguese winger spoke to Inside United for October's issue, discussing his standing in the dressing room, his personal ambitions and his chances of emulating Ryan Giggs' longevity...

There’s no mistaking the change in Nani. The nervous teenager who arrived at Old Trafford in 2007 mumbling answers through an interpreter is gone; in his place is a young man brimming with confidence, joviality and, most strikingly, conducting himself entirely in United’s native tongue.

The Portuguese winger’s sustained brilliance in 2010/11 bagged the players’ player of the year award last May, and that accolade marks a clear change in his standing within the Reds’ ranks. Moreover, it has sent his confidence skyrocketing.

“It was very important for me inside the dressing room, with my team-mates,” he grins. “It showed me that now everyone knows my position inside, on the team and how important I am in the team, how much responsibility I have for the team and the club as well. That’s making me more confident, making me happier, making me want more responsibility. Now I’m in the right position to do everything I wanted in the past. I have arrived in the position I want - respect – in the last two seasons.

“Last year was my best year, definitely my most consistent season. Now I hope this is my year. I will do my best. If I am fit for every game, I am 100 percent sure I will do my best and will do well for my team. This is a big chance to show I can do much more, that I’m a good player with a very strong mentality. I always work hard to be successful help my team to win titles.”

In a summer of change which has largely ushered in youth in the stead of experience, Nani has undergone a promotion to a position of greater responsibility within the team. It’s clear he appreciates the added pressure.

“It’s true,” he laughs. “I’m one of the old players now! This is my fifth season here and yes, five years is enough to learn everything about this club. I’ve been in the most important moments of this club in the last few years and it’s great, the life I’ve had here.” When fronted with the suggestion that he could emulate Ryan Giggs and be a part of the Carrington furniture well into his 30s, the winger laughs again. “It would be nice,” he nods.

The laughter is, however, absent when the subject turns to his compatriot, Cristiano Ronaldo. Portuguese winger, two-footed, similar age: the comparisons are inevitable. But nevertheless, Nani is clearly tired of being held up against the player who he regards as one of his closest friends – indeed, his best friend during their time together at United.

“For five years, every time the question is the same,” he smiles. “It’s all about Ronaldo. You have to be him. Are you doing the same? Do you think you can do it now? Always when I do something good it’s the same. When I do ok, it’s nothing. When I do something very good, they come with this question about him. But it’s ok. It doesn’t change anything in me.

“This is my fifth year here and people know what I can do. Sometimes I play a nice game, sometimes I play not such a fantastic game, but I think everyone knows me and what I can do. Maybe my form has to be more consistent and my performances in the past should be like that. Now I’m in this position I’m more confident, more consistent. I can do in 90 minutes what in the past I just did in 45, and that’s most important.

“I don’t need to show anything to anyone because I know who I am, which player I am and now I just need to put everything on the pitch. When I do that, I do it for me, for my family and for my team. Of course, I know when I do that, it’s always for the fans as well. They take everything good from the game. They love goals and skills as well, but I don’t do it for the media because when you try to do it for the media, nothing goes well. I think the most important thing is to be natural and play the way you are.”

A fair point, and hardly the words of a man labouring in Ronaldo’s shadow. There are, I point out, also clear differences between them. There’s certainly a convincing argument that Nani has a superior left foot to the Real Madrid star. His Community Shield brace was supplied in southpaw fashion, while seven of last season’s ten goals were left-footed efforts.

“I’ve worked a lot on it in the past,” he admits. “I’ve been working on it since I was young. My left foot has been good from a long time ago. But now I still make sure I practice with it, and that’s why last year I think I scored so many with my left foot.”

Blessed with such ambidexterity, is there a chance Nani could be utilised more centrally? “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” he says. “When I was young I used to play midfield, number 10. In Sporting Lisbon I played number 10 as well, behind the striker. Everywhere. That’s a position that is no problem for me. The manager knows that. The manager knows I can play striker. When I was 19 at Sporting Lisbon, I started in midfield and would go to the right, then to striker, then to the left. Everywhere.”

That versatility may come in handy, with Sir Alex Ferguson adding Ashley Young to his brimming talent pool of wingers over the summer. Nani is unfazed, however, by the added competition. He’s seen enough of it in his time at United to appreciate its benefits. “It’s always been like that here,” he shrugs. “A lot of wingers and less positions! But everyone is going to fight to play and help the team. Every team has to have players to make a change, and it’s important for us too.

“It’s a good thing to have more players and more competition. I think we are better than last year. This year we will try to win more trophies than last season. Last year we did well but we just won the league. We will try to win more. We are proud to be champions, but we want to win even more this season. This year we will be more ready to play against every team.”

There’s no shortage of suitors for the Reds’ Barclays Premier League crown. Sir Alex Ferguson has tipped five other clubs to rival the reigning champions, and Nani also expects those familiar faces to stand between United and a record-extending 20th top flight title.

“It will be the same,” he opines. “City, Chelsea, Arsenal, it’s always the same. The league will always be decided in the last games. It’s always that way. The teams who can stay strongest in the last games will fight for the title.

“Chelsea are always a very experienced team with very strong players. Always the same. I think City will make the step up because they have new players. They need to find the team, but they have good players. We will see in the most important games.

"I don’t know about Liverpool. They made a lot of investment as well, but we will see. They are always strong at Anfield and very difficult to play there. It depends a lot. It’s all about the most important games because whoever loses less points in those games will have the conditions to win.”

And what of his personal ambition? If he can continue to play an integral role to United’s ambitions and meet his own demands of sustained improvement, is the ultimate ambition to become and be recognised as the best player in the world?

“That’s one dream I’ve got: to be the best in the world,” he nods, eagerly, before quickly adding: “But I don’t let it frustrate me.

"I’m not like: ‘I have to be the best in the world’, because I have other priorities like winning trophies with the team. Hopefully, when I have finished playing football, people will say ‘Nani was a fantastic player who won a lot of titles and beat records at the club’ or something like that. I know I have the condition to be among the select best players in the world, but I have to work hard and show that. Sometimes that doesn’t happen, but what I can promise is that as long as I am a football player, I will do my best to try to get there.”

Nani has arrived where he wants to be and he knows where he wants to go. With his growing confidence, ability and influence, you wouldn’t bet against him getting there.

Owen Out To Take Chances

After laying the foundations for United’s Carling Cup stroll against Leeds, Michael Owen conceded that he must grasp every opportunity he gets.

The 31-year-old striker struck the Reds’ opening two goals at Elland Road, and bagged Sky Sports’ man of the match award after an impressive all-round display.

“The pressure’s on,” Owen said upon receiving his award. “You don’t get many chances and when you do get a chance, you have to perform because it’s going to be a couple of months before you see a pitch again.

“It’s nice to prove to yourself and everyone that you can still contribute, still play well. We’re coming into a good part of the season now, with the games coming thick and fast so hopefully the games will be shared round a bit.”

After hitting a contrasting brace – one scuffed finish, one top-corner rocket – Owen admitted that he still thrives on the buzz of scoring which has punctuated his career.

“One was a bit of a mishit, one as sweet as I hit them, really,” he conceded. “They were quite contrasting. It’s always nice to score, obviously, that’s what my game has been about all over the years. I also try to contribute in other areas as well and I was pleased to get the goals.

“At 31 I’ve still got a few years left in me. There are different roles you have throughout your career, and at the minute I’m doing that. I’m comfortable and trying to be a bit of an example to young kids to help them through.”

Michael was speaking to Sky Sports.

Boss Delighted With Youngsters

Although the experience of Michael Owen and Ryan Giggs provided the goals to seal Carling Cup progress, Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted to see another clutch of youngsters take their chance at Elland Road.

Zeki Fryers oozed maturity in his 80-minute outing against Simon Grayson’s Leeds before succumbing to cramp late on, while fellow debutants Paul Pogba and Larnell Cole also acquitted themselves well in their respective cameos.

“They did well,” Sir Alex told Sky Sports. “I thought young Fryers did very well and showed good composure. He wasn’t fazed by it, which was really good because you always want to see what their temperament’s like. The atmosphere here, as you know, is hostile and he coped with it very well.

"The first half was a tremendous performance by us. Our movement off the ball and possession of the ball was very good. In the second half, in fairness to Leeds they kept trying and showed a very determined attitude. They never gave in and we just wanted to make sure we were through.

“Paul Pogba came on at half-time and had a good 45, young Larnell Cole came on at the end, which was very good for him. He’s a very young under-18s player, he’s the youngest of the players coming on so it was good for them to get a taste of the atmosphere and a taste of what the first team’s like.”

“It’s lovely to get their careers underway,” added Owen. “Zeki starting the game was big for him and it was great the way it panned out in terms of how we were playing in the first half. He must have felt right at home straight away, and fair play to him, I thought he was fantastic. He put in a great performance and he should be delighted with himself.”

Fryers’ late withdrawal with cramp facilitated an unlikely switch to defensive duties for Dimitar Berbatov, who joined Michael Carrick and Antonio Valencia in moonlighting at the back. According to Owen, though, the Bulgarian is hardly a novice in the role.

“He does it all the time in training, so we know he’s capable of it,” revealed Michael. “He thinks he can play centre half, so he was probably first to lift his hand when we lost Zeki. It was no surprise to see Berba at the back!”

Man. United Ease Past Leeds To Advance To 4th Round Of Carling Cup

United defused a potentially explosive Carling Cup tie at Leeds with a first-half display of composure, control and devastating football.

Michael Owen is simply a natural goalscorer. Within 15 minutes of his first involvement of the campaign, the striker had silenced the home fans and his second strike was a thing of beauty. Captain Ryan Giggs capped of 45 minutes of dominant play with a stunning solo effort that he could have been scoring here in the mid-nineties.

Even with a side designed to give players a game under their belt, hence the inclusion of Michael Carrick alongside Ezekiel Fryers at centre-back and four forwards in the line-up, the Reds were a cut above their rivals from across the Pennines.

The game’s first opening fell to the hosts, and spawned a melee of desperate interventions in the United ranks. Tom Lees’ powerful header was blocked by Dimitar Berbatov, Ben Amos repelled the defender’s follow-up and Berbatov was again on hand to thwart Ross McCormack’s attempts to turn in the loose ball.

Around a game largely devoid of early inspiration, however, the most compelling contest was taking place off the field, as both factions of supporters waged choral war on one another. On the quarter-hour mark, only the visiting section was audible as United moved ahead in United defused a potentially explosive Carling Cup tie at Leeds with a first-half display of composure, control and devastating football.

Michael Owen is simply a natural goalscorer. Within 15 minutes of his first involvement of the campaign, the striker had silenced the home fans and his second strike was a thing of beauty. Captain Ryan Giggs capped of 45 minutes of dominant play with a stunning solo effort that he could have been scoring here in the mid-nineties.

Even with a side designed to give players a game under their belt, hence the inclusion of Michael Carrick alongside Ezekiel Fryers at centre-back and four forwards in the line-up, the Reds were a cut above their rivals from across the Pennines.

The game’s first opening fell to the hosts, and spawned a melee of desperate interventions in the United ranks. Tom Lees’ powerful header was blocked by Dimitar Berbatov, Ben Amos repelled the defender’s follow-up and Berbatov was again on hand to thwart Ross McCormack’s attempts to turn in the loose ball.

Around a game largely devoid of early inspiration, however, the most compelling contest was taking place off the field, as both factions of supporters waged choral war on one another. On the quarter-hour mark, only the visiting section was audible as United moved ahead in devastatingly simple circumstances.

Berbatov slid an inch-perfect pass into the path of Ji-sung Park, who had timed his run perfectly. The South Korean fed Owen, who needed only two touches: one with his right foot to tee up the shot; the second with his left foot to roll a finish in-between Aidan White’s legs and into the net, via the base of Andy Lonergan’s left-hand post.

Leeds’ response was gradual, as Adam Clayton thudded a decent effort into Amos’ midriff and Robert Snodgrass curled a shot just past the upright, but the hosts’ growing menace was soon nipped in the bud, and again in clinical fashion.

Mame Biram Diouf rolled off the attentions of Leigh Bromby and advanced down the right flank before slipping a neat pass into the path of Owen. Again, the striker’s predatory instincts kicked in. One touch to kill the ball, another to send it hurtling into Lonergan’s top corner with hardly any backlift.

Thereafter, Leeds’ defence creaked under pressure every time United picked up the ball in midfield, with Giggs and Park pulling the attacking strings and Owen and Berbatov dropping between the hosts’ lines to link play. Antonio Valencia slid horribly wide from the six-yard box, then forced Lonergan into a scrambling save as he tried to drill a low cross to the lurking Owen, but a third goal finally arrived in the final moments of the half.

Giggs took a short corner to Park, received the ball back and nutmegged Snodgrass with regal ease, before advancing into the box and stabbing a finish which nicked Luciano Becchio’s shin on its way past Lonergan. That was the veteran’s final contribution of the half, as he made way for Paul Pogba during the interval.

Leeds had no answer and were unable to muster a significant response with Owen close to completing a hat-trick with a chip that drifted wide, after latching onto a Berbatov through ball and displaying composure inside the box. Another threaded through ball by Berbatov released Federico Macheda but the Italian shot wide when offside in any case.

Amos was rarely tested but handled well under pressure from Ross McCormack as Sir Alex introduced fit-again Danny Welbeck and another debutant in Larnell Cole in place of Diouf and Macheda.

Clayton, a self-confessed City fan, was unable to grab a consolation he'd remember when his effort blazed over the top with United limiting the hosts to sporadic attacks and moments of danger. Even an injury to Fryers, who was flawless at the back, which led to Park and then Berbatov filling in for the ten men at the heart of the defence, seemed to add insult to injury to Simon Grayson's team. Ramon Nunez's late shot wide proved to be the final effort as the Reds eased through.

Hernandez Fitness Boosts Man. United

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez's ankle injury is not as bad as first feared, says his agent.

The 23-year-old had to be substituted after a challenge by Ashley Cole in United's 3-1 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson feared the Mexican may be out for two weeks, but Eduardo Hernandez said: "[The injury is] just a bump, nothing more.

"I expect him to be training without incident on Wednesday."

JAVIER HERNANDEZ
Age: 23
Man Utd apps: 50
Man Utd goals: 22
Mexico apps: 31
Mexico goals: 22

Evra: We Must Improve

Patrice Evra has warned United must improve and not "rush things" despite racking up a fifth Barclays Premier League win on the spin against Chelsea.

Although pleased to skipper the champions to an important triumph over major title rivals, the left-back was far from satisfied with the overall team performance.

"Maybe for the first time, we didn't control all the game," he explained to MUTV. "Five wins is a good start but I always want more. I'm happy to win but I hope in the next league game, against Stoke, we create more and not try to rush things.

"I think we tried to rush things and gave the ball away too easily. It's why I'm not so happy. I'm happy because there's a lot of positive things and we scored three times against Chelsea but, if we want to win the league and win every game, we have to perform better than on Sunday."

Evra admitted it was a strange match to play in as both sides spurned glorious chances to add to the 3-1 scoreline.

"It was a great game to watch for the fans," he added. "But it's the first time I've played against Chelsea and seen an open game like that. It was a very funny game but, in the end, we won. We were lucky to be in front 3-0 at half-time so I said to the players: 'Forget the first half and try to play like a team in the second half'.

"It was like a boxing fight, I give you and you give me back. It was really strange. I have a lot of respect for Chelsea. People talk about City and us but I always say Chelsea are our most difficult opponents as you can see. They didn't come here just to defend but they attacked and looked to score goals and create chances. I couldn't believe the goal didn't go in from Fernando Torres. Maybe God was with us."

Young Reds Impress Carrick

Michael Carrick may not have played as much as he’d have liked this season, but that hasn’t diminished the enjoyment he’s taken from seeing United storm to the club’s best start in 26 years.

After five games, United have collected maximum points and scored 21 goals – statistics that make for impressive reading. But just as impressive is the sort of free-flowing, attack-minded football that Sir Alex’s men have employed.

“I have really enjoyed watching us, especially when you see us sitting top of the league after the start we have had,” Michael Carrick said. “It was a very tough start and now there are tough games to come. But I’m all for us playing good football and winning.”

The energy and pace with which United have played this term, particularly in midfield, is unquestionable. But is that a product of the personnel on the pitch (Anderson and Tom Cleverley have played the most league minutes in the centre of the park this season) or a concerted change in tactical approach?

“Certain players play certain ways,” Carrick admits, “but we always try to play with a high tempo, keep the ball on the ground and pass and move.

"The manager hasn’t needed to drum into us the need to play quickly any more than he usually does. He’s done that enough over the years!

“The philosophy here is to play at a high tempo and to move the ball quickly and test out the opposition. This season, things have come together very well for us.

“The training since we returned for pre-season has been of a very high quality and is very intense. Maybe that has something to do with it.”

Carrick knows more opportunities will be handed to both he and other more experienced team-mates as the season progresses. Nobody, he says, is panicking about losing their place.

“We’re well aware that there will be times during the season when the flowing football is not going to be there and you just have to find a way to win. Hopefully the experience will tell in those times.

“[At the moment] these young lads will be enjoying themselves. They’ve got an opportunity they possibly didn't think would come so soon.

“[When that happens] you just want to make the most of it when you get a chance. You are so young, you have never really had any setbacks. You just play the game freely and with enthusiasm and enjoy it. They are certainly doing that at the moment.”

Michael was speaking to ManUtd.com, Press Association, BBC Radio Manchester and Key103.

Sir Bobby Charlton Stunned By Manchester United's Start

Sir Bobby Charlton stunned by Manchester United's start
IN ASSOCIATION WITHPage last updated at 13:03 GMT, Monday, 19 September 2011 14:03 UK
E-mail this to a friend Printable version By Anna Thompson

BBC Sport

Manchester United have scored 21 goals in five league matches Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton says he is surprised by the new-look team's 100% start to the Premier League season.

The Red Devils are top - two points clear of arch-rivals Manchester City - after five straight wins, having scored 21 goals and conceded only four.

They swept aside title rivals Chelsea 3-1 at Old Trafford on Sunday.

"You never know at the start what's going to happen but United have got off to a flier," Charlton, 73, said.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has dramatically lowered the age of the side with the regular inclusion of David de Gea, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck, while the likes of Ryan Giggs, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov have been left on the bench.

But United, who have often been slow starters in the past, have immediately hit top form in their opening fixtures as they aim for a record-breaking 20th top-flight title.

Charlton told BBC Sport: "It's a very unusual start for Manchester United but it's fantastic.

"The fans are enjoying it and even those who are just general football fans because of the way we play. Even the goals we are scoring are dramatic."

As well as beating Chelsea, United hammered Arsenal 8-2 and Bolton 5-0, with Wayne Rooney scoring back-to-back hat-tricks. This season he has nine goals for United and two for England.

It is a remarkable turnaround for the 25-year-old, who had a huge fall-out with the club in October last year and publicly announced he wanted to leave.

He made his peace with his employers, signed a new five-year deal and is brimming with confidence.

Rooney has scored 156 goals for United from 329 appearances and is closing in on Ryan Giggs (160), Mark Hughes (163) and George Best (179) but he still has a long way to go before surpassing Charlton's all-time record of 249 goals.

Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, said of Rooney: "He is a marvellous player. You can tell he is very happy at the moment and he will score a lot more goals this season and beyond."

Ferguson is likely to give more young players an opportunity to impress when United face Leeds United in the Carling Cup on Tuesday.

Charlton was speaking on a visit to BBC Sport's new home at MediaCityUK in Salford to mark the launch of 2011 BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

Nani Hails Unity

Nani says United’s best start to a season for 26 years is down to the unity within the squad.

It’s the first time since 1985/86 the Reds have won the first five games of a league campaign (that side won its first 10 league matches) and Nani says confidence is sky-high.

“The whole team has been working hard,” he said. “We’re all together and it gives us confidence for the games. We’re a compact team and we’ve been playing some fantastic football – one and two-touch football- and we’re scoring a lot of goals.”

The Reds found the net three times on Sunday against Chelsea, with Nani scoring the pick of the bunch. He jinked inside off the right wing before beating a man and unleashing an unstoppable shot that rocketed into the top corner.

Afterwards, Nani admitted it was a “beautiful” goal but shied away from declaring it his best in a United shirt.

“I’ve scored a couple of beautiful goals but I’d have to see the others to compare,” he said. “It was a nice goal, though.”

Nani’s strike on 37 minutes put United 2-0 ahead in a game that featured plenty of goalmouth action. Chelsea played their part in the entertainment, too, and on other day could have beaten the Reds with a similar performance.

“Everybody saw a game with lots of opportunities for both sides,” Nani said. “Chelsea had a lot of chances to score as well but I think our performance was better than theirs and that’s why we scored three goals. We had a lot of confidence and our football was better. I think we deserved the win.”

The Portuguese left Old Trafford with a bottle of champagne courtesy of host broadcaster Sky Sports, who named him Man of the Match. It was an assessment that raised no eyebrows from Sir Alex.

“Nani's marvellous, he was brilliant today," Sir Alex said. "Absolutely brilliant. He's a terrific player, the lad, and he's starting to mature. We're going to get the best years out of him, no doubt."

Nani and Sir Alex were speaking to MUTV and Sky Sports.

Boss Upset By Chicharito Blow

Javier Hernandez faces a return to the sidelines after being hurt by a lunging tackle by Ashley Cole during United's 3-1 win over Chelsea.

Chicharito was caught by the despairing challenge as he fired into the side-netting when looking to profit after Wayne Rooney's shot bounced back off a post with 13 minutes remaining.

It upset and puzzled Sir Alex, who saw the full-back booked but, as no penalty was awarded, there needs to be some clarity from referee Phil Dowd on the situation and whether the yellow card was for dissent.

"To me, it was a shocking tackle," protested the boss. "An absolutely shocking tackle.

"The referee's booked him and, if he's booked him, I don't know why it wasn't a penalty.

"I must ask him [Dowd]. We don't know how Hernandez will be. We're going to have to wait until the morning but, at the moment, his leg is very numb. He's hardly got any feeling in it so he could be out for a couple of weeks."

Sir Alex felt Cole's tackle was "reckless" and "over-committed" and could also be missing Chris Smalling for the upcoming matches against Leeds and Stoke.

"Smalling's got a groin injury so we'll see what it's like during the week," he added.

Sir Alex Enjoys Strange Game

Sir Alex Ferguson felt the circumstances were strange as United sealed his best start to a season as Reds boss.

Although the champions romped to a three-nil lead over Chelsea in the first half, it wasn't the most convincing of the five league victories so far.

The visitors had some great chances in addition to the ones they converted almost immediately after the restart - had goalkeeper David De Gea not made "an excellent save" from Ramires in the first half and Fernando Torres not missed an open net in the second period ("it reminded me of Diego Forlan against Juventus on a pre-season tour") - then honours could have been even at Old Trafford.

"I think for the neutral it was a fantastic open match," said Sir Alex. "It was strange because games against Chelsea over the years have always been tight affairs. This was a very very open match.

"Some of our football was terrific at times. But I thought we created our own problems for ourselves by giving the ball away so many times in attacking areas and they kept counter-attacking against us. In the first half they could have scored two or three."

United's attacking play again pleased Sir Alex, especially when the Reds utilised the wings instead of trying to feed Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez through the centre.

"I think we did okay when we got the ball up to Nani and to Ashley Young, I thought that was our strength and they couldn’t cope with that," said the manager.

"When we tried to be clever in the middle of midfield, we kept botching it up and they kept counter-attacking us. When we got the ball out to Nani and to Ashley Young, I thought that was our strength and they couldn’t cope with that."

Wayne Rooney was unfortunate not to grab a hat-trick for a third consecutive league match, but Sir Alex wasn't concerned that his leading scorer only had to settle for one goal.

"He’s hit the post and he’s missed a penalty kick – I don’t know what he’s trying to do with that. He slipped I think. It’s unusual because Wayne’s normally composed and he takes his penalty kicks very well. I wasn’t worried about him getting a hat-trick or not. I was more worried about us winning the game and we’ve won the game so we’re all happy."

Man. United Keep Up 100% Record With Convincing Win Against Chelsea

The champions beat Chelsea 3-1 thanks to goals from Chris Smalling, Nani and Wayne Rooney in an action-packed clash at Old Trafford. Although Fernando Torries replied for the Londoners at the start of the second half, his dreadful late miss only added to the ecstatic mood around the ground.

Sir Alex's side could even afford a missed penalty from Rooney and several spurned chances en route to a fifth straight victory in the Barclays Premier League to go two points clear at the top of the table.

United were slower into stride than in this fixture last term, and yet still led after only eight minutes. David De Gea had been called into drastic action to kick away a Ramires shot early on but the opener soon arrived, in front of the Stretford End.

Ashley Young was fouled and swung the free-kick over for Smalling to bury an unstoppable header for his first league goal for the Reds. Replays showed the defender may have been marginally offside and the goal provoked a decent response from the visitors. When Anderson passed the ball straight to the Spaniard, Old Trafford held its breath but the £50million man dragged his shot wastefully wide of the far post.

De Gea caught a Bransilav Ivanovic header and saw Frank Lampard lash wide, after the England international midfielder rightly escaped a handball shout inside his own area. There was an almighty let-off on 26 minutes when Torres was onside and in the clear but squared the ball.

Ramires stretched to force a wonderful, improbable stop from De Gea with Daniel Sturridge waiting behind for a simple tap-in.

The Reds no.1 gathered the resulting corner at the second attempt and also kept out an unmarked Sturridge while Torres sent an unconvincing overhead kick wide as Chelsea had few problems creating chances. But Nani showed them how to finish with a piece of individual magic, collecting Jonny Evans' diagonal pass, advancing on goal and fizzing a firecracker of a finish past Petr Cech's flailing right hand.

With a two-goal advantage, United continued to look menacing and, just before half-time, Rooney was involved early on in a move that saw Phil Jones maraud forward from centre-back. Eventually, John Terry's clearance bounced fortuitously off Nani and into Rooney's path. He calmly despatched a third.

This was never going to be a cakewalk for the champions and substitute Nicolas Anelka made an immediate impact at the start of the second half when setting up Torres for a clever finish over De Gea. Mata forced the Reds stopper into action again but United should have extended the lead when Nani broke onto a Rooney pass and, after seeing his shot come back off the bar, was fouled by Jose Bosingwa as he latched onto the rebound.

Phil Dowd opted against carding the Portuguese defender and no punishment was meted out as Rooney slipped when taking the spot-kick, evoking memories of John Terry's miss in Moscow by screwing it wide.

United continued to press after Antonio Valencia and Michael Carrick were introduced but Jones headed a delicious Young cross wide and Chelsea worked hard to get back into the game. Romelu Lukaku was denied by a saving challenge from Patrice Evra soon after coming on and Torres fired a rebound over after De Gea parried his initial shot. The woodwork then saved the visitors when Rooney hit a post from an Evra cross and Javier Hernandez was hurt by Ashley Cole's challenge as he crashed the ball into the side-netting. Cole was booked but there was no penalty as the Mexican limped off.

The home fans were celebrating as though a goal had been scored when Torres rounded De Gea with seven minutes left but inexplicably shot wide of the empty net with his left foot. There should have been another strike to enjoy in injury time but Rooney's unselfish pass was a little over-hit to Dimitar Berbatov, who could only send his shot against Cole on the line. Nonetheless, this was another impressive three points for the Reds, who continue to look unbeatable at Old Trafford. Chelsea's fans were chanting: "We're going to win the league" in the dying seconds but, on this evidence, it was more out of hope than expectation.


Nani celebrating his spectacular strike against Chelsea

Manchester United Get Approval For Singapore Share Sale

Manchester United have received approval to float the company on the Singapore Stock Exchange.

The club wants to raise $1bn (£635m) to pay off some of its debts by selling about 25% of the parent company's shares.

United want to complete the process, which is known as an initial public offering (IPO), by the end of the year.

They will spend the next few weeks speaking to investors ahead of a road show to market the offer.

But analysts said the club might decide that it was not a good time to list.

"Volatile markets and weakening sentiment would be a major drawback for anyone who wants to list," said Vishnu Varathan from Capital Economic in Singapore.

"It's not the most ideal time to list, it's not a bull market. Tapping new sources of funds could be a challenge and pricing could come under pressure."

Manchester United is currently profitable, having reported a record annual operating profit of £110.9m for the year to the end of June 2011.

Headline pre-tax profit came in at £29.7m, compared with a loss the previous year.

The club is reported to be considering creating different classes of shares, some of which have lower voting rights but carry higher dividends.

The idea of that would be to maintain control of the club by the Glazer family, which bought Manchester United in 2005.

Anders Thanks Sir Alex

Anders Lindegaard has thanked Sir Alex and his team-mates for already making him a better goalkeeper.

The Denmark international made some stunning saves in the 1-1 draw against Benfica on Wednesday night and is clearly keen to push David De Gea for the first-team slot. However, he appreciates the competition for places at Old Trafford will only make him better and knows he needs to be ready when called upon by the manager.

"It was a fantastic experience," he said of the Lisbon game. "Like a childhood dream coming true.

"The reflex save I made in the second half, I would never have made while in Norway or Denmark. It just goes to show how much I am improving since I came to Manchester United. Alex Ferguson has helped me a lot. He said to me 'play the game, not the occasion' and it was exactly my approach to the game.

"There is only room for one goalkeeper in the team. I think we have a very good competition - we have at least two top goalkeepers, and Ben Amos as well who is very promising. It is like that in all positions with United and that is how it should be. I am never going to complain about competition.

"David [De Gea] is a great guy to work with. We have a great working environment. I accept the manager's choice every time. He has proven he is the best manager in the world and I will always respect his decisions.

"We are going into a busy programme. We seem to have two matches a week until January and I am ready. If you expect me to say I am happy to be number two, that is not how it is. I am here because I want to be number one.

"If you are good enough, you are going to play. In the end, if I am good enough, I am going to be number one.

"There is a psychological side you have to deal with because it is difficult when you are not playing. You don’t feel as much a part of the team as when you’re playing, you want to win the respect of your team-mates.

"The most enjoyable part of a game like Wednesday is when your team-mates come and say 'well done'. It is not the media or the spectators, it is my team-mates."

Carrick: Morale Better Than Ever

Michael Carrick says team spirit at Old Trafford is better than ever after the infusion of young talent this term.

The 30-year-old finds himself, grudgingly, as a senior figure in the squad and is as delighted as the supporters with the fabulous start to the campaign.

Although Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck are both out of the Chelsea match through injury, United will look to maintain the fast-paced style that has earned four straight wins in the Barclays Premier League.

"There's a lot of the same faces in the dressing room really," he said. "It's still the same atmosphere and banter. It's as good as ever - if not even better.

"The younger lads have come into the team and done ever so well. It's their energy and enthusiasm they bring, as well as their quality, and it's great to see and has given everyone an extra spring in their step. We want to carry it on.

"I suppose I have to be classed as a senior player, turning 30. The average age of the squad has dropped significantly really over the summer. It's not that I want to be getting old but that's how it is.

"I've learned off Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville and probably the younger players just pick up the habits off me, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra. That's how it works and keeps on rolling.

"You've got to play well to play in this team. It's been the case for years, there's always competition for places, which is healthy enough, and has always proved successful."

Carrick realises Chelsea will be difficult opponents again on Sunday under new boss Andre Villas-Boas.

"If you look at the start Chelsea had last season, everyone was saying they were going to win the league," he explained. "It obviously wasn't the case.

"So we're not getting carried away with the situation. We're playing well and are top of the league but we still respect other teams for the threat they pose to us. It'll be a tough game.

"Every game is a different challenge. When we looked at the fixture list at the start of the season, it looked a really tough start so, at the stage we're in at the moment, we're really happy. Chelsea's the next game and we want to be taking points off what's seen as your rivals, especially at home.

"They've tinkered a little bit and made a couple of changes but whether they keep the new faces or the old faces for Sunday remains to be seen. We're fully aware of the strengths they have, even their new signings we've seen enough of to know about them. They know us inside out as well so there's no surprises on that front. It's who plays well on the day."

Fletcher To Battle For Spot

Darren Fletcher accepts that being a United player means there is always competition for places.

Tom Cleverley and Anderson's form at the start of the season has placed extra pressure on the midfielders and, although Cleverley is sidelined with a foot injury, the fit-again Scot is aware that he needs to be at his best to hold down a starting place.

Fletcher made his first start of campaign for the Reds in the 1-1 draw against Benfica and will hope to figure against Chelsea on Sunday, the team he famously scored the winner against in 2005 to end the Blues' 40-match unbeaten league run.

When asked by PA Sport if he was worried about younger players coming through, he replied: " Not really. I have been at Manchester United with great players. It is always a challenge to get into the team. You are always there for them, passing on advice.

"It is a team, although it is a squad game. You want to be playing yourself but you have been in the position they are in just now. I had a lot of experienced players handing advice to me. I will be doing the same for them. The ultimate goal is being successful for United.

"Manchester United are always going to attract top players. There are always players coming in. I look at the squad we have got and it is a challenge definitely. I have seen it as a challenge throughout my career. You have to earn the right to play for Manchester United. The young lads are doing it now and hopefully we will all play a part over the coming season."
As regards Sunday's encounter with Chelsea, Fletcher is under no illusions about the threat posed by Andre Villas-Boas' side.

Last season, they started on fire and ultimately did not win the league," he added. "You have to be careful. Chelsea are a top side, with a lot of experience. They have a new manager and they have brought in some younger, fresher, exciting players as well. They have a good squad. Liverpool have signed players as well.

"It is a tough Premier League. Although the two Manchester clubs have started particularly well, the other teams are going to be dangerous as well.

Smalling: Reds' Benfica Boost

Chris Smalling insists United took plenty of positives from Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw against Benfica in Lisbon.

The Reds defender, who played 90 minutes at centre-back in Estadio da Luz, was pleased with the point and, in an exclusive chat with ManUtd.com, said the game acted as perfect preparation for Chelsea’s visit to Old Trafford on Sunday.

“It was disappointing to fall behind but even then I felt we had a lot of the ball and then [after Ryan Giggs’ equaliser] we kicked on in the second half. We were unfortunate not to get three points.

“But this looked, on paper, the hardest game in our group and even before we came here we would have looked at 1-1 as a good result. They have a good record in the Portuguese league and we knew they’d go into the game confident.”

And although United’s performance wasn’t as slick as some of those we’ve seen in the Barclays Premier League this season, Smalling was nevertheless impressed with how the Reds played in Lisbon.

“At times we really did dictate the play and show some authority. I felt we were the better team on the whole and we take a lot of confidence from that game as we head into Sunday’s match against Chelsea.

“That’s going to be a massive game. We knew it was going to be a big week but it’s one we’re all relishing.

“[Some people are already writing Chelsea off] but I wouldn’t say they’re too old to win the league. They’re definitely going to be up there or thereabouts. They’ve signed some good players and a lot of them will have fresh legs.”

Giggs Still Feels Fresh

Ryan Giggs still has no plans to retire, even though the man in the opposing dug-out at Old Trafford on Sunday will be much younger than his 37 years.

The evergreen Manchester United midfielder scored a tremendous goal against Benfica on Wednesday night and will be eager to face Andre Villas-Boas' Chelsea side after playing a key role in the Blues' Champions League downfall last term.

"Yes, it's slightly strange I suppose seeing managers younger than me," he admitted to MUTV. "I mean he's obviously had a successful time at Porto and Pep Guardiola is only 40 so it might be a trend that is starting to happen."

United's infusion of young talent into the side is ensuring Giggs remains hungry and in tip-top condition as he looks to extend his record-breaking run in the club's first-team.

"I think I'm just enjoying it," he stressed. "Enjoying the challenge each season. The young players carry you through at times in training, when you're feeling a bit down or a bit slow, they are nipping at your heels and just dragging you on. They're making you feel sharp and train that much harder.

"Of course, with the manager and all of your other team-mates, you don't want to let them down. You constantly want to keep the quality you've had during your career, although my game's changed, I've still got to try and contribute to the team which, hopefully, I will carry on doing.

"I've not got any targets at all. If I pass these milestones then it's great but I've never set myself any targets. I try and enjoy it and try to win things. It's what I'm doing. Every moment, every week, every season is a bonus to me now.

"I was getting ready to finish two or three years ago but I'm still enjoying it. It's why I'm carrying on. If I start not enjoying it or feel I'm not contributing to the team, I'll call it a day.

In terms of a future beyond his playing days, Giggs still has no firm plans in place.

"I don't think any players are really ready for retirement," he explained. "Ask a player what he misses and most players don't miss training, nor games. What they miss is going in to training and having the banter, seeing the team spirit. So it's tough to say you are going to miss it.

"The buzz of going out at Old Trafford for big league games and big Champions League games and the feeling you get when you win a game - I'm going to miss all that.

"You just try and prepare yourself to look for the next best thing, whether it'll be TV, coaching or other business interests, you try and prepare yourself. At the moment, I just want to get my badges done and take it from there. I'm really not saying 'no' to anything in football.

"You just prepare yourself as much as you can, but there's just so much concentration on playing, it's difficult to do that - especially at the start of a season. Maybe at the turn of the year, if I know I'm going to finish or am feeling I'm going to finish, I'll just start trying to prepare myself a little bit more."

Fletcher: Great To Be Back

Darren Fletcher was delighted to be back in the United team on Wednesday night - but typically disappointed not to have helped the Reds secure a victory.

The midfielder started a senior club match for the first time since the closing league fixture of last season, and played his part as Sir Alex Ferguson's men took the sting out of Benfica's powerful start to claim a hard-fought draw.

"Obviously we came for the three points and we're disappointed not to get them," Fletcher told MUTV. "But I think a point, away here against a good Benfica side after going a goal down, is a decent point.

"We expected Benfica to start quick when we saw the stadium and their passionate fans. Obviously we went a goal down but we showed good character to respond and we got a foothold in the game. After we equalised, I felt we controlled the match without getting the chances our possession deserved. There were a few half chances here and there but I felt with our possession that we would go on to get the winner. Unfortunately that didn't happen. That's something we'll need to work on."

Fletcher was full of praise for the man whose goal brought United level - his fellow midfielder Ryan Giggs. "Giggsy scored a fantastic goal," said the Scot. "He's an inspiration to all of us. He's got so much experience, he never misses a day's training, he's always in. He was fantastic on the pitch tonight. He just keeps going and getting better and better which is a credit to him and great for Manchester United."

Getting better is also Fletcher's aim as he continues his quest for full match fitness following his recovery from a virus earlier this year.

"It's great to be back," said Fletcher. "Two games for Scotland, both full 90 minutes, set me up nicely and I feel fit, I feel ready and it's good to be back in amongst the lads and involved in the squad and be back playing in the Champions League.

"The lads have started the season fantastically and the manager’s obviously made a few changes tonight with one eye on the match against Chelsea on Sunday. I think he said at the beginning of the season that once the Champions League starts everyone would be involved. That's when the squad game comes into play."

Lindegaard Enjoys Euro Bow

Anders Lindegaard had "great fun" on his UEFA Champions League debut for Manchester United - but still rued the shot that got away, Oscar Cardozo’s 24th-minute screamer for Benfica at Estadio da Luz.

The Danish goalkeeper put in an impressive shift against the Reds' old foes, pulling off several top-class saves to prevent the Portuguese outfit from adding to their first-half opener. Lindegaard is something of a perfectionist, however, as he explained after the match.

“I am satisfied with my own performance,” said Lindegaard. “I am a bit sad that I didn’t save the first goal as I touched it with my fingertips. It would have been a great save, but apart from that I was satisfied with my performance.”

Lindegaard was happy to make his European bow in front of United’s passionate travelling support, who despite the din of a largely partisan crowd, made their presence known in Lisbon.

“I had great fun and that is the most important part of why I play football. I enjoyed it very much and it was a great night. It is a great stadium to play in with a very loud audience. I could also hear our fans which was nice. This is why I came to United. To play in these kind of games."

After a delightful first taste of European football, it's natural that the shot-stopper wants more.

“I have said one thousand times before - I am not here to pick my nose. Although I came from a small team in Norway called Aalesunds, I am here because I want to play, not because I want to sit on the bench.”

Sir Alex Pleased With Point

Sir Alex Ferguson declared himself pleased with a point following United’s 1-1 draw with Benfica in the UEFA Champions League.

The boss paid tribute to the Reds’ ability to come from behind, after Ryan Giggs cancelled out Oscar Cardozo’s superb opener for the hosts with an equally impressive leveller.

“We went 1-0 down and coming back was a good part of the game for us, " said Sir Alex. "I thought we played very well for the first half an hour of the second-half and maybe we should have finished it then.

“But in the last 15 minutes I think Benfica came into it a bit and Anders (Lindegaard) made one or two terrific saves to keep us in it. We had one or two chances ourselves but I think a draw was a fair result.

“You’ve got to expect a tough game with Benfica and one of contrast. When they had possession they did well and when we had it, we played well. That’s what good teams can do. It was that type of match and both teams played their part.”

One of the most pleasing aspects of Wednesday’s match at the Estadio da Luz was the opportunity to field some of the players who'd previously been on the fringes this season.

“Most of them have had good game time," observed Sir Alex. "Ji-Sung Park and Michael Carrick had a full game. Antonio Valencia and Darren Fletcher both played a good part of the game, as did young Fabio.

“We needed that because we have important times coming up in the Champions League, the Carling Cup, and the Premier League.”

Attention will now turn to Sunday’s top-four clash with Chelsea at Old Trafford and Sir Alex has already hinted at again changing his starting line-up. The boss revealed: “David De Gea will play on Sunday. That was the understanding we had before the Benfica game and it doesn’t change.

“We gave Ashley Young a rest tonight as I felt he needed a little break after the two games he played for England and the one for us at Bolton. He is new to the club and obviously every game is massive for him here, so he’ll be nice and fresh for Sunday.”

Sir Alex was speaking to both MUTV and ITV.

Man. United Open European Quest With Decent Draw

Ryan Giggs' solo effort earned a point for Manchester United in a difficult Champions League opener against Benfica in Lisbon.

Nicolas Gaitan's delightful long pass picked out Oscar Cardozo in the 24th minute, and he controlled on his chest then finished from 16 yards.

But three minutes before half-time Giggs cut inside from the right and fired a 20-yard strike to equalise.

United keeper Anders Lindegaard saved from Nolito and Gaitan late on.

Lindegaard read the game well and made some impressive stops. The Dane's only previous matches for United had been against Southampton and Crawley last season, but he looked at home in the Champions League.

The goalkeeper's performance will put more pressure on David de Gea, but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that the Spaniard will start against Chelsea on Sunday.

United's overall display was unconvincing. With Chelsea their next opponents, Ferguson chose to make eight changes and it showed, particularly during a disappointing first-half effort.

Giggs, who had struggled, ensured that they were level at the break with his moment of inspiration and the visitors did improve after the interval. The Welshman's goal meant he extended his record as the oldest goalscorer in the Champions League to 37 years and 289 days.

United had started reasonably well with Antonio Valencia shooting wide with a 16-yard attempt from a tight angle, but Benfica then began to take control. The impressive Gaitan drove their first chance over, then he fired wide at the end of a sweeping passing move.

Lindegaard made his first save of the night when he kept out a 20-yard strike by Cardozo, but he could not prevent the same player's next shot from going in four minutes later. The striker finished well following Gaitan's delivery to notch his fifth Champions League goal of the season.

Wayne Rooney was then booked for challenging home goalkeeper Artur after the whistle had gone, although the fouled player appeared to overreact.

Benfica carried on dominating, though Pablo Aimar was walking a disciplinary tightrope with a series of niggly challenges.

Against the run of play Giggs made it 1-1 shortly before the interval with his eye-catching run and hit. That laid the platform for a better start by United in the second half as they began to keep possession better.

The two sides exchanged chances as Aimar came close with a 30-yard strike after escaping Michael Carrick, before Giggs had a shot from just inside the box deflected wide by Artur's shin.

Nolito then forced Lindegaard into another save and Emerson shot wide with a close-range effort.

United's goalkeeper saved his team again when he tipped over a Gaitan effort. Benfica then blew their last chance of taking the points when Nolito failed to hit the target from six yards after another neat move.


Giggs celebrating his goal against Benfica

Carrick: Rooney Hitting Peak

Wayne Rooney is destined to have his best season to date, according to team-mate Michael Carrick.

Rooney has made a rapacious start to the campaign - scoring back-to-back hat-tricks - and has eight goals already this term.

The improvement in his form can be put into context when you consider that he is already just three goals short of the sum he attained last term.

United will face Benfica at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday evening, and while Sir Alex Ferguson is expected to make changes for the game, the apex of his attack is expected to play.

"This is probably Wayne's best season so far and I am expecting big things from him," said Carrick

"He has done well in the past but he is getting more mature. He is handling things well and going from strength to strength.

"Sometimes he plays well but because he hasn't scored, people don't think he has played well. They just judge him on his goals.

"To score and perform the way he has is brilliant."

Carrick has fielded criticism in the past from his own manager about being a slow starter and until Tom Cleverley's injury against Bolton he had not been involved.

Last season, he missed the first two months of the campaign with an ankle injury, before returning to form an integral part of the team that clinched its 19th league title.

Yet he maintains he has not been worried about regaining his place in Ferguson's youthful-looking starting XI.

"It is not so much a case of being worried about getting back in, more that I just want to play," added Carrick.

"I have to be patient. I have not been left out in the cold in any way and I know I am going to get games. It is frustrating but I look at the bigger picture.

"It hasn't just been me who has had to wait. Others are facing the same situation. But now the Champions League has started again more players will be needed."

Strikers Revel In Reebok Romp

Fresh from sharing all five goals in a stunning win over Bolton, Wayne Rooney and Chicharito were in chipper mood, post-match at the Reebok Stadium.

The Mexican striker bagged a brace on his first start of the season, but Rooney went one better to notch his second successive hat-trick, and admitted afterwards that United could have had even more in a one-sided affair.

"We always know Bolton's a difficult place to come, but we got an early goal and kicked on from there," Rooney told ESPN. "Thankfully the win was a bit easier than we thought, but we still had to work hard for it.

"We controlled the game and I think it could have been a lot more, but obviously I'm delighted to score a hat-trick again. First start with Chicha and we both scored, so it's great."

The England striker has scored eight goals across United's four Barclays Premier League matches this term, and attributes his fine form to an uninterrupted summer of preparation.

"I had a long time to rest," he conceded. "I wanted a good pre-season under my belt and thankfully I've done that, steered clear of injuries and it's helped me for the start of the season."

Chicharito, meanwhile, was in typically modest mood after notching a clinical brace of close-range finishes, ranking the victory ahead of his own achievement and lauding more praise on his strike partner.

"Like I always say, the most important thing is the result," said the Mexican. "We got three points from a very difficult team like Bolton and we're delighted. I think every player can play with Wayne Rooney, he's playing really well. We know that Wazza's a world class player and a player who can do everything."

Fergie Unhappy With Davies

Sir Alex Ferguson has slammed Kevin Davies for the tackle that left Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley with a broken foot.

Cleverley left the Reebok Stadium with his foot in a protective cast after being caught in a tackle by Bolton skipper Davies.

Even Cleverley fears the worst, which comes at a bad time given the 22-year-old has just broken into the England squad.

The injury cast a shadow over United's ruthless 5-0 triumph and left Ferguson biting his lip.

"We think it is a broken foot," said Ferguson. "It is unfortunate but we expected it. It was a bad tackle."

Davies was not cautioned for the incident but shortly afterwards picked up his 100th Premier League booking for felling Patrice Evra.

If the worst is realised, Cleverley can expect to be out for around three months.

The injury did not prevent United maintaining their sensational early season form, with Wayne Rooney becoming only the fourth player in Premier League history to score hat-tricks in back-to-back games.

It took Rooney's tally onto eight for the season, more than 18 Premier League clubs have so far managed, the exceptions being United and Manchester City.

It is a far cry from Rooney's poor form of 12 months ago, with Ferguson believing the trigger has been his number one striker's new-found maturity.

"When players get to their mid-20s, there is more thought in their game," noted Ferguson.

"Their timing is better. Wayne's presence is good and he is looking fantastic."

Rooney was joined on the scoresheet by strike partner Javier Hernandez who marked his first start of the season with two goals and Ferguson was full of praise for the Mexican.

"Hernandez's movement, speed, imagination and presence within the game was terrific," added Ferguson.

"He is a menace to any defender. Over the years the second season for players can be hard. But I never had any doubts."

Meanwhile, Ferguson will check on the fitness of Patrice Evra, who took a blow to the knee, before finalising his squad for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League encounter with Benfica in Lisbon, although he expects to be without Jonny Evans, who was forced off with a hip injury.