Boss Promotes Integration

Sir Alex enjoys watching his latest batch of youth products training with the first-team at Carrington.

The United boss is adept at integrating youngsters into his plans and is carefully nurturing another talented group of teenagers, who already have the FA Youth Cup under their belts.

"The youngsters have taken part in a lot of first-team training now," explained the boss. "[Ravel] Morrison, [Paul] Pogba, [Larnell] Cole, [Jesse] Lingard and [Zeki] Fryers: we've stepped them up to our squad.

"They enjoy the challenge and it's an opportunity for us to see what they're like in these sessions, how they cope with the older players. It's how they handle the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic if they give them a bit of stick... it's a good part of a young player's progress when they can be involved with the big boys."

The situation is not new for United, as the fabled "Class of 92" had a famous tussle with their senior counterparts in order to measure their progress.

"I used to threaten Bryan Robson all the time and tell him the 1992 team would beat you," revealed Sir Alex. "We did have a practice game together, the first team versus the Class of 92.

"The first team won 3-1 and Robson was in one of his angry moods. He was very determined that day! It was brilliant, they were absolutely revved up for it and the young boys were thinking: 'Why are we doing this and can we beat them'? There was an element of doubt in them and I think there was a lot of intimidation going on. I can't remember who was referee but it wasn't me!"

Boss Clarifies Rio's Position

Sir Alex Ferguson has explained his recent comments regarding Rio Ferdinand and reiterated that the Manchester United defender still has another couple of good years in him.

The Reds centre-back was told he would have to adjust his game as he gets older and that led to some newspaper reports that the £30million signing from Leeds will be phased out of the firing line.

Sir Alex addressed the matter on the eve of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Newcastle United, during which Ferdinand was highly unfortunate to concede a penalty. The boss told Sunday newspaper journalists:

"I think it [the talk about Rio's United days being numbered] generally came from the media after he'd not played in certain games.

"From Rio's perspective as he's been such a great player for us, I think it was important to explain his present position and there's nothing wrong with that.

"What I said was absolute fact - he's not as quick as he was five years ago. That happens, people do lose their pace as they get older.

"But Rio is adjusting his game accordingly and has had two or three good performances since then.

"I've no issues at all with Rio, he can play for another couple of years quite easily. Of course we have to look ahead, there's nothing wrong with that, but it shouldn't mean Rio looks upon it as the end of his career. He's got a part to play with his experience and he's good in the dressing room. He's a big figure and players look up to him so that will continue."

Sir Alex echoed these sentiments in his interview with the latest edition of Inside United, which is on sale from Wednesday 30 November.

"I can clarify the situation quite simply," he stated. "Rio is 33 years old now so he's naturally going to have to adapt his game in some fashion. But he has the necessary attributes to compensate for [losing a yard of pace].

"It's not like he's a big, cumbersome oaf. Rio's a nimble, athletic and agile guy and he's still faster than most.

"He's a terrific player and he'll play many, many more games for us. He's still one of the best centre-backs in the country."

Ferguson Issues Olympics Warning

Sir Alex Ferguson does not want Manchester United's young players selected for both the European Championship and 2012 Olympic Games.

England's Football Association has suggested players taking part in June's Euro 2012 could also feature at the Olympics in July and August.

Ferguson said: "I know they're young, fit and eager, but they will need rest.

"I wouldn't like to see our young players who might be involved in Euro 2012 being selected for the Olympics."

Team GB's football manager, Stuart Pearce, is yet to reveal any firm selection plans, although former England captain David Beckham, 36, has stated he is keen to play as one of three over-23s allowed in the 18-man squad.

Writing in his United Review matchday programme notes ahead of Saturday's Premier League game against Newcastle, Ferguson added: "Manchester United might well have a direct interest in this with our up-and-coming youngsters like Danny Welbeck, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Tom Cleverley now on the international scene.

"I welcome their involvement at international level but if they go to the Euro finals they will need a break.

"I am sure Stuart Pearce will bear this in mind. I certainly hope so because I wouldn't like to see them burnt out before they have really started."

Former Scotland manager Ferguson also admitted he had concerns over any of his compatriots playing in the tournament, but acknowledged that United's Welsh winger Ryan Giggs might deserve the chance to play.

"Speaking as a Scot I would say it is a no-no for us in case [world governing body] Fifa seizes the opportunity to try to make the home countries play together as Great Britain all the time, and we wouldn't want that," he said.

"Having said that, Pearce made sense when he pointed out that a player like Giggs, who has missed out on playing in the major international tournaments with Wales, might welcome the opportunity to play in the Olympics as one of the over-age players.

"It might well appeal, and at the end of the day I suppose it is probably best left to individual choice."

Fifa boss Sepp Blatter said in March that the Celtic nations' international status would not be affected by their players' turning out for a Great Britain Olympic team.

Evra Takes The Positives

Patrice Evra is taking the positives from the disappointing 1-1 draw with Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Demba Ba's hotly-disputed penalty leveller was a source of great frustration for the home fans and players but the French full-back felt the side started to show some of the attacking sparkle that was so evident at the start of the season. Indeed, he is convinced if the champions keep playing in the same manner, then the title can be retained next May.

"I'm very frustrated we didn't win," Evra told MUTV. "I think we deserved the win. It's a draw but you have to take the positives and I think the manager has mentioned that as well. I think the team has not played that way for a long time and created so many chances. If you want to win the league, you have to score more goals.

"Against Arsenal, we created eight chances and scored eight. Today, we had maybe seven chances and only one goal. Sometimes, that's football - it's very strange. It's frustrating but it's a positive game for Manchester United.

"At the start of the season, we did very well - scored a lot of goals and conceded a lot of goals," he explained. "After the big accidents against City, when they scored six goals, we decided to defend better and we know, if we have a strong defence, we're going to win games. It's why we looked like the old United when winning 1-0 every time and winning the league in the end.

"Today, we looked more like we played at the beginning of the season and I know we're going to score more than one goal per game. There's big frustration as I definitely wanted to finish that game being just two points behind City but the league is a marathon not a sprint.

"There's a long way to go and I'm confident if the team keeps playing that well, I'm convinced we're going to win the league."

Evra was clearly disappointed with the penalty decision but refused to be too critical of referee Mike Jones, who took advice from his assistant before pointing to the spot.

"No, it wasn't a penalty," he stated. "I think it was a difficult decision against us but the referee was responsible and he went to see the linesman to say: 'Are you sure?' He said: 'Yes, it's a penalty' and the referee trusts his man. What can you say? We have to be more focused on how many chances we missed."

Sir Alex: Draw Was A Travesty

Sir Alex Ferguson felt his Manchester United players were hugely unlucky not to take three points from the tussle with Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

The Reds went ahead through Javier Hernandez shortly after half-time but were pegged back by Demba Ba's penalty after Rio Ferdinand's tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa inside the box. Despite carving out a host of chances, the champions were unable to beat Tim Krul and his solid defence for a second time, even though the Magpies went down to ten men after Jonas Gutierrez's red card.

"It was a fantastic performance from us," said Sir Alex. "Alan Pardew said Newcastle were the better team in the first half - I don't know what game he was at! Chicharito had four clear chances and we played some great football. The second half was just an onslaught and to not get three points from that is just a travesty.

"I'm not concerned if we're playing like that. Most of the time, we'd score three or four goals in that game. Their goalkeeper made some fantastic saves, there were shots blocked, cleared off the line and we had one or two bad misses. So it's just an incredible result."

The boss was obviously upset to see referee Mike Jones point to the spot after consulting his assistant on what looked to be a clean challenge by Ferdinand in the second half.

"I think it was everyone's view [that it was a fair tackle], including the referee as he thought Rio won the ball because he gave the corner kick," explained Sir Alex. "He let the assistant referee over-rule him.

"We had a situation a few weeks ago when the linesman gave a penalty kick to Sunderland for handball [against Nemanja Vidic].

"The referee [that day] was put in a terrible quandary in between what to do as he knew fine well it wasn't a penalty and over-ruled his linesman. It's what the referee should have done today."

The manager also bemoaned the crucial touch from Michael Carrick which meant Hernandez was in an offside position as he tucked in Ryan Giggs' injury-time cross.

"We kept making chances and that's the normal pattern of these last 15-minute surges," he added. "We do get chances and usually do okay. We were unlucky with the offside as, if Michael doesn't touch it, Chicharito is onside.

"They had a few blocks and put their bodies on the line all the time. Give credit to Newcastle but we absolutely slaughtered them and we just couldn't get the result. It's disappointing in that respect but, if we play like that every week, I'll be very happy."

Battling Newcastle Thwart Man. United

Manchester United were held by Newcastle United in a pulsating match.

Javier Hernandez gave the home side an early second-half lead after Wayne Rooney's volley ricocheted off Steven Taylor before hitting the Mexican.

Newcastle drew level from a disputed penalty as Rio Ferdinand was adjudged to have fouled Hatem Ben Arfa, with Demba Ba scoring from the spot.

Jonas Gutierrez was then sent off, Tim Krul made two great saves, Ashley Young hit the post, but the Magpies held on.

The draw leaves the champions four points behind rivals Manchester City, who travel to Liverpool on Sunday.

That Newcastle left Old Trafford with a point had much to do with Krul's superb goalkeeping performance and the visitors' ability to throw bodies in the way of the ball in a frantic final 12 minutes after Gutierrez's dismissal.

Krul somehow blocked Nemanja Vidic's fierce header and then pushed away Patrice Evra's shot, while Danny Simpson typified Newcastle's resilience when he cleared a Hernandez effort off the line.

At times in that thrilling conclusion Krul's goal seemed to be protected by a forcefield as Ashley Young rattled the post with a shot, while a last-gasp Hernandez goal was ruled out after the Mexican strayed offside when he poked home Ryan Giggs's cross.

If Newcastle rode their luck at times it was also a performance that adds to the growing body of evidence that the Magpies can continue to prosper this season after their fine start, with this draw keeping them in fourth.

In the opening half Alan Pardew's side looked to attack at every opportunity with Ben Arfa and Gabriel Obertan effective in creating chances with their vision and touch - both from the centre of the pitch as well as the flanks.

Ben Arfa produced the cutest of passes with the outside of his foot to scoop the ball over the hosts' defence to Ba, whose volley tested David de Gea.

A cross from Obertan, who was arguably the visitors' most effective player in that first half, created Newcastle's best chance with a cross from the right, but Ryan Taylor miscued with his volley.

However, that Newcastle went in at the break level was primarily to do with Krul's reactions.

Early on he saved twice from Hernandez before the Dutchman flung himself to his right to produce a fingertip save from the deftest of flicks from Giggs.

Just before the break Newcastle were handed a reprieve when Hernandez miscued with a shot when he probably should have scored.

Four minutes after the restart Hernandez finally broke the deadlock, though he must have known little about it.

Steven Taylor had fouled Hernandez to win a free-kick just outside the box and, although the Newcastle wall blocked Rooney's set-piece shot, the England striker was quickly onto the rebound.

His volley went deep into the Newcastle area before ricocheting off Steven Taylor and then off Hernandez into the net.

It was a desperately unlucky way to go behind, but the visitors were soon to profit from a contentious penalty that was awarded when Ben Arfa went down after a Ferdinand tackle.

Television replays appeared to show the United defender had won the ball cleanly but referee Mike Jones - after consultation with his assistant - awarded the penalty that Ba slotted in as De Gea went the wrong way.

The Manchester United goalkeeper produced a wonderful save to parry a Fabricio Coloccini effort, but once Gutierrez had been dismissed for a second yellow card, Newcastle had only the manpower to concentrate on defending their goal.


Controversial penalty

Sir Alex Answers Midfield Critics

Sir Alex Ferguson has responded strongly to criticism of United's midfield and insists he will never make knee-jerk signings aimed at strengthening his team.

In an interview with MUTV, screened on Countdown to Kick-off on Friday evening, the Reds boss was informed that the subject of central midfield had generated plenty of recent debate on the club's TV channel, with some disgruntled fans demanding new signings.

Sir Alex responded by arguing there was "no point" in rushing into the transfer market and that, in fact, the champions have coped remarkably well given the number of injuries in the squad this term, not just in midfield but also at the back.

"Criticism is fine as long as it's balanced," the manager declared. "Anderson and Tom Cleverley have been injured and those two, in particular, have tremendous potential – they’re fantastic young players. So we're missing two very important cogs in the machine.

"Darren Fletcher has had his issues and Michael Carrick has been injured a few times, so we're trying to achieve a consistent midfield operation.

"And it's not just the midfield – you've also got to look at the back four, which we've been changing all the time. We've done exceptionally well in spite of that.

"Everyone's saying 'go out and buy a central midfield player'. Well, I would do that if he were a Manchester United player. If we'd seen a young Bryan Robson or Roy Keane, we'd have been the first there. The possibilities of improving our team are not lost on us."

Sir Alex knew that replacing the retired Paul Scholes would take some time, but he has faith in his policy of promoting from within.

"When you lose a player of Scholes' brilliance, there's a 'time lapse' which allows someone to emerge from the youth or reserve team, or to come back from a loan spell," he explained.

"Cleverley was at Wigan last year and also had spells at Leicester and Watford. He gained maturity from being on loan and we have to wait on and trust that."

Ferguson Predicts Goal-line Technology Delay

Sir Alex Ferguson does not believe goal-line technology will be introduced into the Premier League next season.

The Football Association (FA) this week raised the prospect of technology being brought in for the 2012-13 campaign.

Manchester United manager Ferguson said: "Of course it's a good idea but I can't see it happening next year."

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger also supports the use of goal-line technology and wants it introduced as "quickly as possible".

"The sooner the better," he said. "I'm a big fan. I want more [technology], as much as possible. When you love football, you just want to reduce the level of injustice."

Wenger said technology should also be used for penalty calls and offside decisions but "only at the demand of the central referee".

Nine systems are currently under review by an independent testing authority employed by Fifa. A final decision is expected to be made in July 2012.

FA general secretary Alex Horne told the BBC: "It's possible we could see [technology] in the Premier League as early as 2012-13."

However, when asked about the likelihood of technology being used next season, Ferguson responded: "You sure about that?

"People throw ideas out but you've got to pass it through Fifa and Fifa have always been against it. So have Uefa.

"You can never stop progress but I don't think it'll happen next year."

Fletch: United Is My Home

Darren Fletcher speaks to United Review and ManUtd.com about the season so far and the Champions League...

How did it feel when you stepped out to make your 300th appearance for the club against Sunderland?
It was a great moment to reach such a milestone even though you treat it as just another game. The time has flown since my debut and I’ve enjoyed everything about playing for Manchester United. It’s all I’ve ever known and it’s become my home. It’s an achievement I want to build on. The next target has to be 350, then 400 and so on – you always want to keep going.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learnt since making your debut?
The experience you pick up along the way is a massive thing. You hear people talk about it when you’re younger, but it’s only when you get older that you realise its importance. It’s about the different situations you go through on the pitch – you learn what it takes to succeed, what you need to do in certain matches and how to prepare for games so everything eventually becomes second nature. People have always told me to be myself too. There are so many great players you look up to, but you have to be your own player and your own man and have your own style. I’ve always tried to do that.

In terms of this season, how close are you to reaching your top form?
I feel good. I’ve felt good since the start of the season and I’m pleased with how things have gone. The more games you play the more sharpness you get and, like the rest of the team, I really want to kick on for the rest of the season.

How have the dynamics of the midfield changed since Scholesy’s retirement and how does the constant media talk of targets impact on the current midfielders?
Speculation is something that’s part and parcel of being a United player. I don’t think the way the team’s been playing has changed dramatically. Obviously Scholesy had a wonderful range of passing and could control the tempo of games, and as we get more experienced that’s something we’ll be looking to do. Manchester United always keeps moving forward - if one player leaves or retires the team is still in place. The manager has always kept things moving forward because they have to. This club never stands still.

What do you make of Barcelona president Sandro Rosell’s recent suggestion about dropping the number of domestic games to play more Champions League games at weekends?
I don’t think it will happen. The set-up we have now works perfectly. Everyone loves the Premier League and when the Champions League comes around it’s always special. I think we already have exactly the right mix and blend.

Having missed out on playing in three Champions League finals, how big is your desire to win the competition?
Playing in a final is still a goal that’s there for me. As a team we’re all desperate to get there again, I don’t think I’m particularly different from the rest in that sense. Some of the lads who have played in the last two are no doubt driven by their disappointment. The motivation is there for all of us and hopefully we can get there again.

Evra: How To Be A Full-back

Patrice Evra recently took part in a webchat with fans in China in which, among other things, he spoke about what is required to be a full-back at the highest level…

What is your advice to become a successful full-back?
You have to love to attack and you have to love to defend. That’s the speciality of the full-back: running up and down, crossing the ball and getting back quickly afterwards. But it’s about finding the right balance – that’s the most important thing. When I played at Monaco I was a more attacking player and didn’t defend as well, but I improved that part of my game a lot when I joined United, so that now I am first a defender, and secondly an attacker. So my biggest advice is to find that balance. I was looking for it before I joined United, and found it straight away when I arrived here.

What are the training essentials for a full-back?
Full-back is a really important position and a difficult one, which is why you have to train hard every day. You have to attack and defend together, so in training I try to find the right balance, because if you don’t do that, you’ll never be a good left-back. If you attack too much, people say "OK, he’s a good attacker, but he doesn’t defend well". And if you just defend, they say you have to attack more. That’s why I think it’s one of the most difficult positions in football.

What is the most important quality you need to be a United player?
To always be fit and play at your highest level, because at United if you play just a normal game you can find yourself on the bench: someone’s always ready to replace you. That’s why I know I have to work hard every day to fight for my place – even if I’m playing every game. The day I stop working hard, Sir Alex will put me on the bench. I know this, which is why I wake up feeling lucky every day and I thank God I’m playing for Manchester United.

When was the first time you picked up a football and why?
I started to play football when I was five years old. I remember I was so happy when someone gave me a football. Once I was playing at home and I broke a football, and my mum was really angry with me. But my dad said maybe I was going to be a future football star, and he was right!

Would you consider taking up coaching when you retire?
It’s not easy but a lot of people say I could coach when I retire because I’m close to the players and I’ve been captain many times. But I think it’s a difficult job because you have to win and to make everyone happy – and it’s not easy to keep 23 players happy! Sometimes you don’t play and the manager has a difficult choice. But we’ll see – at the moment, I’m playing and enjoying it, but it’s a good option for the future.

Boss Praise For Berba

Dimitar Berbatov remains in Sir Alex's thoughts after leading the line impressively in the 2-2 draw with Benfica.

The former Spurs striker ended a long run without a goal at Champions League level with a textbook header from Nani's 30th-minute cross to pull United back to level terms on Tuesday night.

After twice putting the ball into the net when the whistle had sounded and hammering a late volleyed chance over the top, there will have been some frustration on his part but the manager was pleased with the 30-year-old's overall display.

"He's always been involved," said the manager. "He's not had the starts but that's all to do with the partnerships we've had this season.

"He's done very well tonight and could've scored a hat-trick. It was a bad decision when he was flagged offside in the first half - it was never offside. And he missed an opportunity near the end, he was a bit unlucky but maybe he could've taken it down.

"Nonetheless, he played very well and there's always a goal in Dimi, always the ability to turn a game. That's why I played him. He's always in my thoughts."

Carrick Collects Euro Ban

Michael Carrick will miss next month’s crunch Champions League meeting with Basel through suspension.

The Reds midfielder collected his third yellow card of this season’s European campaign when he slid in on Pablo Aimar near the end of United’s 2-2 draw with Benfica at Old Trafford on Tuesday. Frustratingly for the 30–year-old, replays suggested Carrick won the ball fairly.

Turkish official Cuneyt Cakir disagreed, however, and cautioned Carrick for the challenge, which means he’ll now be forced to sit out of United’s matchday 6 encounter in Switzerland.

Losing Carrick, who’s almost a permanent fixture in Sir Alex’s starting line-up on big European nights, will be a big blow to the Reds, who need to avoid defeat in Switzerland to ensure qualification to the knockout phase.

The manager will have Nemanja Vidic back, however, after the Serbian completed his two-match ban after picking up a red card on matchday 3 in Romania.

United meet Basel at St Jakob's Park on Wednesday 7 December.

Smalling Still Backs Reds

Chris Smalling is still backing United to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League despite surrendering leadership of Group C to Benfica after the 2-2 draw.

Providing Jorge Jesus' side beat Otelul Galati in their final fixture as expected, the best the Reds can hope for is second place by avoiding defeat at Basel, who will qualify themselves if they manage an upset.

Smalling, who came on as an 82nd minute substitute on his return from injury, is not worrying what the repercussions could be to Tuesday night's result at Old Trafford.

"It was a disappointing one because we'd done so well to get ahead even though it was a difficult game," he admitted to MUTV.

"To concede straight away was gutting and we've given ourselves work to do in Switzerland now. It's been close in the group and you can see a lot of teams vying for top spot but hopefully we can do the job in Switzerland. Whoever you get in the next stage is a tough game anyway and you've got to beat them along the way. We just need to make sure we're there.

"Last year was one journey and hopefully this one can go on just as long. We have lots of games beforehand and, when that week comes, all out attention will go towards that Basel game. I think United always usually qualify and I don't see us not qualifying."

Newcastle are the next visitors to Old Trafford and Smalling is hoping to remain in contention for a place.

"We've kept a lot of clean sheets recently so it's unfortunate but hopefully we'll get back on track on Saturday," Smalling added.

"It's been frustrating being out but the lads have done really well. I hoped I could come back and play my part. It was only a brief cameo but there's lots of games over the Christmas period and hopefully I'll be in with a shout.

"Newcastle have been flying this season so it's good we can play them at home and hopefully get the win. I'll train as normal tomorrow and be ready for Saturday."

Nani Takes Benfica Positives

Nani insists there are positives to be taken from United’s 2-2 draw with Benfica in the UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

The Portuguese winger was understandably disappointed not to record the win that would have secured qualification to the last 16 phase, but says Sir Alex Ferguson’s side are moving in the right direction.

“We are in a good moment,” Nani told MUTV. “We have been playing good football and have to forget this [result] and think about the way we have been playing. The way we haven’t conceded goals [recently] and won games is important. We’ll try to do that in the next game against Newcastle.

“We have missed a couple of players. We are missing a couple of players every game, which is not good for any team, but we will be fine in the next games and the players will come back.”

Nani believed United deserved to win on Tuesday night and was quick to point out the element of luck attached to Benfica's early opener.

“We were unlucky with the first goal. Everybody was in a good position and there was no chance for them to create anything. They crossed the ball and it came off a leg and it was an own goal.

“We played some fantastic football and created a lot of chances to score goals and eventually wasted a lot. We let them create a chance to make it 2-2 and they took it. That was a big problem for us.”

Attention now turns to matchday 6 and United’s journey to Switzerland to face FC Basel, where a point is needed to ensure progress to the knockout stages. Should the Reds win that game handsomely and Benfica slip up against Romanian side Otelul Galati, Sir Alex's men could steal top spot in Group C. It's a scenario Nani feels the Reds will thrive on.

“We are used to this pressure and have enough experience to go to Basle and win the game. We never know: Benfica could draw their next game, but you have to think about yourself.

“We have to be ready to return to winning ways. We expect a good game from Basel but we have a lot of ambition. We have to show we want it more than them and work harder than the other team.”

Fletcher Keeps Cool

Darren Fletcher is pleased European qualification is still in United's hands ahead of the trip to Basel next month.

Although qualifying as Group C winners looks to be beyond the Reds (Benfica will be strong favourites to beat Otelul Galati at home in their final fixture), the midfielder is refusing to panic about the prospect of facing the likes of Real Madrid or Barcelona in the next phase.

United must first get the job done in Switzerland by avoiding defeat and Fletcher, who put Sir Alex's side ahead in the second half, is understandably keeping a cool head.

"We're disappointed as topping the group looks like it's going to be difficult now," he told MUTV. "It's still in our hands to go to Basel and get a positive result and go through.

"We've lost goals at bad times and they were bad goals, but these things happen. We lose goals as a team and we created enough chances to win the match by a few goals. Unfortunately we didn't take them and suffered because of that.

"The first [goal we conceded], Phil Jones couldn't do much about it. It was the same for Rio Ferdinand, who was in a good position defensively, but it just comes off him and falls to their lad [Pablo Aimar] nicely. We're disappointed in that respect but, like I've said, we created enough chances and played some good stuff.

"Benfica are a good side. We experienced that when we played them out there. They're having a good season in their domestic league so we were under no illusions that they were going to have a go and it was a decent match to play in.

"Obviously we need a bit of luck [to finish top of Group C], but I fully expect Benfica to go and win their match. We'll go to Basel to win our match with a faint hope of topping the group but the most important thing is to get into the next round, even though you want to win the group. If we play one of the top sides, so be it, we'll look forward to that challenge."

Fletcher also had words of praise for Ashley Young, who returned from injury to play a central role behind Dimitar Berbatov. "Youngy was fantastic playing in the hole behind the striker," the Scot enthused. "He was available all night and caused them problems. It's great to have him back."

Boss: We Deserved More

Sir Alex Ferguson says United's performance against Benfica warranted more than a point following the Reds frustrating 2-2 draw in the UEFA Champions League.

The boss is certain his side deserved three points from Tuesday's chaotic match at Old Trafford, but remains confident of progression to the competition’s knockout stages.

“The goals we conceded were very disappointing - they were a bit freaky to be honest," Sir Alex lamented. "One was an own goal and the other was a bad kick out from David De Gea. The back pass could have been a little bit better, it wasn’t a bad back pass but David couldn’t really play it into the stands.

“But we played so well tonight, we made a lot of great chances and played some really good football. I have no problems with my players at all. But that’s the game, it’s a cruel one at times and it was cruel for us tonight.

“We had to get into our rhythm and tempo. We had a bad start by losing a goal after three or four minutes, which takes the steam out of you and the wind from of your sails. But once we got into the game we played really well and should have been two or three up by half-time.

“We kept on playing and creating chances in the second-half and I think we were very unfortunate not to win the game.We were missing a few players like Tom Cleverley, Chris Smalling has only just come back and Nemanja Vidic was suspended but the squad we’ve got is good enough, we’ve no complaints. That’s why we’ve got this squad and they proved themselves tonight and did really well.”

Tuesday’s point leaves United second in Group C and needing at least a draw against FC Basel on Matchday 6 to ensure progress to the last 16. And with Benfica ahead on goal difference, the Reds’ chances of finishing top of the pool appear to be over.

Sir Alex, however, remains bullish: “The chips are down for us but I have every confidence in my team. Obviously, Benfica should win at home and score a few goals against Galati so we have to win in good style.”

Man. United Progress Halted By Benfica Draw

For those who criticise the Champions League group stages, this fabulous affair was evidence of the sort of entertainment it can provide.

United went behind to an early Phil Jones own goal but battled back valiantly with goals from Dimitar Berbatov, spearheading the team in Wayne Rooney's absence, and Darren Fletcher. The Portuguese visitors responded swiftly through Pablo Aimar to keep their unbeaten run this season intact and a Nani cross that deflected behind in injury time proved the final throw of the dice.

As it stands, United are second in Group C - level on points with Benfica but crucially behind Tuesday's opponents on the head-to-head format - with Jorge Jesus' outfit due to play Otelul Galati in the final round. Basel held out for a 3-2 victory in Romania and they sit only a point behind last season's runners-up in the table.

The Reds got off to a nightmare start when an incisive move down the right in the third minute saw Maxi Pereira feed Nicolas Gaitan and the winger's cross was shinned into his own net by Jones, giving David De Gea no chance.

Gradually, Sir Alex's side responded, largely through Nani's adventurous dribbling, with Artur brought into action by the Portugal international's free-kick and a shot from Ashley Young. The visitors continued to try and disrupt the Reds' flow but the breakthrough came on the half-hour mark. Young worked a free-kick short to Patrice Evra who helped it on to Nani, always likely to be the source of any inspiration. The wide man's left-wing cross was perfect for Berbatov to guide a splendid header wide of Artur and into the net for the equaliser.

The goal sparked a frantic spell, with Young firing a one-on-one opportunity against Artur's legs after linking well with Berbatov and Aimar bringing a smart stop out of De Gea seconds later. Although Berbatov later tapped the ball into the net, Evra had long since been flagged offside and Artur was yellow-carded for his attempts to get the Bulgarian booked.

Clearly gaining in influence since his leveller, Berbatov had a drive deflected over by Ezequiel Garay's desperate block following some neat work by Young as the sides went into the break all-square, allowing the fans to catch their breath.

The second half was just as exciting and began with Young's side-foot shot being blocked at close range following some fine work by Nani. Fabio spurned a glorious chance on 54 minutes when Jones' strong pressing led to him being in the clear with only Artur to beat but the keeper saved the attempted chip.

Undeterred, the Reds kept knocking on the door and, soon after Benfica lost Luisao to injury, Fletcher edged his team in front. Evra's superb ball into the box allowed the Scot to find the net, at the second time of asking after Artur did superbly to block his initial shot. Old Trafford's joy was short-lived, however, as De Gea's misplaced kick-out gifted possession to the Portuguese side and Bruno Cesar's cross hit Rio Ferdinand and fell kindly for Aimar, who gratefully smashed home from close range.

Berbatov had the ball in the net again but Young was flagged offside, probably incorrectly, before the officials got it right when Nani appealed for a penalty under Javi Garcia's challenge. Referee Cuneyt Cakir merely waved play on. Goalscorers Aimar and Fletcher traded off-target efforts, before Berbatov really should have restored the Reds' lead. Fletcher's intelligent pass freed Fabio and the Brazilian's cross was volleyed over by the unmarked Bulgarian inside the box.

It proved a costly miss as, despite the introduction of Javier Hernandez for Antonio Valencia, the Reds were unable to gain the victory that would have made the qualification process considerably easier. Indeed, Rodrigo went closest to a winner when easing past Fletcher but firing wide with his left foot. As it is, the final group fixture in Basel next month carries great significance and any hope of topping the group may have vanished in the cold Manchester air.

Boss Dealing With Injuries

Sir Alex admits injuries have unsettled United this season but accepts they are just part and parcel of the game.

The Reds have responded to the 6-1 defeat by City with five straight victories on the back of five clean sheets and yet have still faced some criticism for not playing the exciting football that was on show at the start of the campaign.

The boss knows exactly how to go about winning the Barclays Premier League and is happy with the way the champions are playing.

"I think we've made some changes to the team at the start of the season," he explained. "Tom Cleverley and Chris Smalling got injured and Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic were injured in the first game. So there were quite a few changes you don't envisage.

"You see everyone fit and fresh in pre-season and, going through the tour of the States, there was not one injury and then you're hit with a whole host [of them]. It doesn't disrupt us to a great degree but it does unsettle the balance of the team at times.

"Sometimes we have to rethink which team we need to win a match and sometimes, when the team is in full flow, you don't need to worry about that. We've had a few issues but hopefully we're gradually getting over them and, once we get the players back in again, we'll be okay."

Sir Alex is satisifed with how his troops are performing as the Reds remain in second place in the table behind leaders City.

"I think the players addressed the situation well," he added. "The collective thing has been good and, at this stage of the season, what we try to do now is get through to the New Year and be near the top. Being at the top would be fine but if we're near to the top, it presents us with an opportunity.

"We never looked like losing the match at Swansea. We were always in control, which is good away from home in the Premier League. If you're controlling games, you're doing a good job."

Sir Alex Eyes Festive Charge

Sir Alex Ferguson wants United to turn up the heat during the Christmas period as the Reds chase title glory in the Barclays Premier League.

The boss refuses to consider the current league standings as a significant gauge for future success, looking instead towards the turn of the New Year and the business end of the campaign.

“I don’t think we are looking over our shoulders or up above us at this time as it is so early on in the season,” Sir Alex declared. “The important thing is for us to do our jobs right. We have got some big games coming up with Newcastle next week and Aston Villa after that.

“December is a hectic month, you have the Boxing Day and New Year fixtures and it’s a congested programme. That’s why you have to utilise your squad to navigate your way through all of that. By December 31, we’ll hopefully be in the right position.

“To me, that is always a good indicator about how your chances are and who your dangers are. I always use that barometer at that time of the year. I’ll be happy with top - I’ll be happy with second as long as we are within a point or two - that will do me fine.”

United’s midfield options were dealt a significant blow on Friday with the news that Tom Cleverley’s injury sustained against Everton has turned out to be a more serious problem than was first anticipated, ruling the youngster out until Christmas.

However, Sir Alex is certain the central hole will be ably plugged by Michael Carrick, saying the former Tottenham midfielder traditionally improves during the winter months.

“Michael always comes good at this time of year. He takes a bit of time to get going but it is always a good spell for him and he will always play a big part. He is fit which is good news as it gives me options about the midfield combinations and possibilities. We should be okay in there.”

Giggs: We Need To Play Better

Ryan Giggs admitted United were below-par against Swansea on Saturday evening, despite achieving a fifth consecutive win to nil.

The veteran midfielder set up the only goal of the game, netted by Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, but was disappointed the Reds couldn’t build on it in the next 80 minutes.

“Sometimes it can happen that way,” said Giggs. “We scored an early goal and then we sat back. We shouldn’t have done that really.”

The Welshman acknowledged this trip to his homeland was a difficult fixture, with Swansea defying their newly-promoted status to pick up 13 points and concede only one goal at home – an own goal – prior to United’s visit.

“It’s a tough place to come. Their record this season shows that, they were unbeaten here until today. So we knew it would be tough.”

Giggs accepted international breaks can impact negatively on clubs when their players return, but wouldn’t cite this as a reason why United’s 1-0 win was worryingly slender.

“You have different players at different fitness levels,” he said.

“Some of our players hadn’t had a game for two or three weeks and some, like Phil Jones and Nani, had two tough games.

“But that’s not an excuse. We probably need to play better if we’re going to get more positive results.”

Concentration Was Key

Sir Alex hailed his side’s concentration levels in the hard-fought victory at Swansea on Saturday and reserved special praise for Michael Carrick on his first league start of the season.

Javier Hernandez’s 11th-minute goal proved the difference in the 1-0 win, but it was the Reds’ dogged display at the back which pleased the manager, as did the impressive performance by Carrick in the centre of the field.

“Keeping clean sheets has been an integral part of our success and we have been careless with our defending,” he told MUTV.

“A few weeks ago there was genuine criticism about the defending and the chances opponents were getting. Swansea didn’t really make any chances apart from the miss they had in the first half.

“It was a solid performance and we never looked like losing the game. We were comfortable and had good possession. And when you win these games 1-0 it brings the concentration back to a good level which has been lacking. The concentration we showed today is exactly the concentration we need back in the team.

“We’ve tightened things up and there were some good performances by our defenders. And Michael Carrick was outstanding. I thought he did really well – it was a big performance from him.

“To get Michael back to that form and have the likes of Ryan [Giggs] available gives us good options. We also brought on Fabio, Fletcher and Valencia which shows you the strength of the squad – they were good changes at important times in the game.

"The squad we’ve got now is strong and I can make changes with confidence and that’s very important at this stage of the season.”

It was United’s first-ever victory at Swansea and it brought the Swans’ unbeaten home run this season to an end as well.

“They’ve got a great home record and that’s something we looked at before the game,” added Sir Alex. “They’re a good football team and they keep the ball well.

“We maybe should have done better with the chances we got towards the end of the game, but when you look at the way Swansea have been going in terms of form it was a good result.”

United Secures First-ever Win At Swansea

United ensured they remained hot on the heels of their Manchester neighbours with a first-ever victory over Swansea City in Wales.

This was the first meeting between the two teams in 28 years with the Reds never having beaten the Welsh side on their own patch in eight previous attempts. Brendan Rodgers’ side were intent on maintaining that record and indeed this season’s unbeaten run at the Liberty Stadium, but Javier Hernandez’s 11th-minute strike proved decisive as Sir Alex’s men, who were professional in their play, rather than prolific, overcame a spirited display from the Swans.

With Manchester City eight points clear at the top of the table at kick-off, Sir Alex knew victory was imperative and he sent out a strong team with that very much in mind. There were three changes to the side that beat Sunderland with David De Gea returning in goal, Michael Carrick starting his first league game of the season and Ryan Giggs back in action in his native Wales and featuring in his first match for five weeks after a spell in the treatment room. And it was the Welshman who ensured the Reds got off to the perfect start on 11 minutes.

Angel Rangel dithered on the ball at the back and his attempted pass was easily cut out by Giggs. The midfielder powered into the area before sliding a low cross into the path of Javier Hernandez who side-footed home from five yards to keep up his impressive run of goals away from home.

Swansea, who had come out of the blocks with real intent, remained buoyant despite the early blow and went close to restoring parity on 22 minutes; indeed, Scott Sinclair will still be wondering how he didn’t get his name on the score-sheet. Just after Patrice Evra had seen a low drive well held by Michel Vorm, Danny Graham, the Swans’ lone front-man, shrugged off a challenge at the other end to put Wayne Routledge in. His cross cannoned off Carrick and into the path of Sinclair who, with the goal gaping and De Gea struggling to get back in position, completely missed the ball from eight yards out.

After breathing a sigh of relief, the Reds, who were in relative control thereafter, set about building on their advantage. After Giggs had flashed a free-kick just wide nine minutes from the break, Hernandez found himself clear down the right but he over-hit his cross towards the onrushing Rooney and the chance was gone.

It was the Swans who had the first sight of goal after the restart. Joe Allen, brought on to replace Routledge, rolled the ball out to Sinclair who sent a powerful left-foot drive goalwards, but it was well parried by De Gea. Gary Monk then miscued a free header from the resulting corner.

The Swans continued to battle but De Gea and co. held firm. At the other end, Hernandez was always a threat on the break, while Rooney was involved in virtually all of United’s good play. Indeed, the England striker tried his luck from long range on 70 minutes, but Vorm claimed well.

With only one goal in it, the Swans continued to probe. Sinclair escaped the attentions of Rooney down the left and picked out Graham in the box. His shot was well blocked by Carrick, while Ashley Williams saw his follow-up effort cleared by Ferdinand.

With time almost up, the Reds went close to doubling their lead in quick succession. First, Rooney chipped the ball onto the roof of the net, then Jones, on one of his now renowned bursts forward, fired a low drive, from inside the area, against the far post. Finally, Nani sent a curling effort just wide.

United held out for the victory - their fifth in a row - and ensured they kept up the heat on City.

Berbatov Still In Boss' Plans

Sir Alex has dismissed suggestions he is ready to offload Dimitar Berbatov, insisting the Bulgarian has an important part to play in United’s trophy quest.

Berbatov's starting appearances have been limited this season by the form of Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck, leading to speculation that he could be sold in January.

But when asked at his Friday press conference if the 30-year-old was still in his thoughts, Sir Alex replied: "Yes. I have read some things but there is absolutely no reason for me to let him go.

"He is an outstanding footballer and it is unfortunate that the form of Chicharito over the last year has been outstanding, but he [Berbatov] plays a great role and he trains well.

"He has no complaints. He is a great professional and we are happy for him to be here."

Berbatov's contract runs out next summer and Sir Alex was asked whether he planned to activate a clause in the deal to keep him at Old Trafford for another year.

"He’s still a young man," the Reds boss responded. "You need a good number of strikers in the modern day.

"If you look back to 1999, we had four great strikers. They all played their part. That is exactly what will happen today."

Jones Is A Midfield Option

Sir Alex has added to the praise being lavished on Phil Jones and admits the former Blackburn youngster is an option to play in the Reds' midfield.

Jones filled the role for England against Spain and Sweden and also featured in the middle of the park during the 1-1 draw at Liverpool earlier in the season.

Coach Fabio Capello likened the teenager to Franco Baresi after being impressed with his versatility and the manager has also been bowled over by his swift integration at Old Trafford.

"I think since he has joined us, his improvement has been really, not remarkable, but eye-catching in the sense that we know he’s 19 years of age, we know it’s a big step up from Blackburn to United, but he’s been absolutely fantastic," enthused Sir Alex.

"He can play anywhere, I’m sure of that, he’s versatile, he’s two-footed, he’s quick, he’s got good perception of the game. So I’m not surprised what Fabio is saying. I think he can be a really influential player for us and England in the next few years."

Tom Cleverley's prolonged absence has caused some concern regarding the midfield but the manager is convinced he still has enough alternatives to Jones in that area.

"We have options," he added. "Michael Carrick is back, we’ve got Darren Fletcher, Ryan Giggs. I can play Phil Jones there if I wish, we’ve got Darron Gibson coming back, Wayne Rooney has played there. Ji-sung Park can play there and we’ve done that in the past with him. So I have options and I’m not overly worried about it – I’m happy."

Red Devils Post Turnover Rise

Manchester United have posted an increase in turnover for the first quarter of the financial year.

Turnover has risen by £10.5m to £73.8m, an increase of 16.5%, in the three-month period that ended 30th September.

Their commercial turnover has increased by 22.3% to £29.6m, largely due to a £40m training kit sponsorship with DHL in what the club described as a 'ground-breaking deal'.

Match-day income totalled £21.6m, an increase of 9.6%, while media revenues amounted to £22.6m.

The turnover leaves the club with a gross debt of £433.2m, down by £83.5m.

Speaking last month, United's commercial director Richard Arnold said: "A lot of hard work has gone into getting to the position we are in now and we are already looking to the future."

Chicha: United Life Is Amazing

In part two, Javier Hernandez talks to Inside United and ManUtd.com about his love for Manchester United, competition for starting berths and training in the snow.

Missed part one? Read it now in our exclusive interviews section.

Just how much are you enjoying life at United?
It’s unbelievable. In some ways I’m still getting used to wearing this shirt and being around these incredible players, seeing my name on a Manchester United teamsheet... it’s amazing. Some days I wake up and I just can’t believe it. I’m living in this great country, playing for the best club in the world in the best league in the world. I’m so thankful for that.

It’s now even harder to win a spot in the Reds’ attack with Danny Welbeck, Mame Biram Diouf and Kiko Macheda all back in the United squad. How do you deal with the competition?
It’s not a problem. I’ve come to learn that there will always be competition, at any club. You look around on the training pitch and there are almost 30 players, but only 11 can start a game. So it’s tough. You’ll always have disappointments. It helps you improve, though. On the training ground everybody wants to do their best, they want to prove what they can do and earn a spot in the team.

Did you know much about Welbeck before the start of this season?
Yes, I’d seen him play quite a few times, and not only last year when he was on loan at Sunderland. I remember when I was in Mexico and I was watching Manchester United on television – Danny was just starting to come into the team and be given a few chances. You could see he had a lot of potential then, and was improving all the time. He was a good prospect then and now he’s even better. He’s had a great start to the season.

You haven’t scored from outside the area for United yet – though we know you can score those goals from your time at Chivas! What are the chances that you’ll fire one in from long-range this season?
You never know! I think part of the reason I haven’t done that yet is because of the instructions I receive from Sir Alex. My job is to play very high, right on the last man. To be honest I don’t mind how I score goals – whether or not you score from one metre or from the halfway line, it counts the same. A goal is a goal.

You’ve been a very busy footballer in the last few seasons, playing in summer international tournaments as well as the regular season. Do you ever worry about doing too much, or are you happy you get enough rest?
No, not at all. I love to play football. If somebody wants me to play in outer space then I’ll do it! I’d be happy to. Sometimes you can look at the schedule for Manchester United and for the national team and think, “Wow, this is a lot.” But I grew up wanting to play football and now I’m lucky it’s my job. I love it.

Sometimes players from the warmer countries can’t get used to the climate in England. Are you ready for your second Manchester winter?
It was very different! Very cold. I’d never seen a winter like that anywhere. It was the coldest one for many years. And maybe it felt even colder for me because I spent something like 22 winters in Mexico and a winter in Mexico isn’t like winter at all. It never snows! Training in the snow was a bit of a challenge, but it was all new to me so I enjoyed it.

Winning the 19th league title last season was a huge achievement for United. Can this squad lift the trophy again?
I’m sure we can do it. We have a lot of young players who are hungry to do well, and that helps inspire the rest of the squad. They may have been here for many years and won a lot of trophies, but they still have a lot of desire. I think we have a good mix of youth and experience, and that will be very important for us.

Fortune: Get The Balance Right

Former United ace Quinton Fortune believes playing on game consoles could actually help youngsters develop their football skills.

The South African was blown away by the talent on show at the Manchester United Soccer Skills Final at Carrington recently and feels the fact that there is such easy access to watching the world's best players has to be a positive development. Many observers have criticised schoolchildren for playing computer games rather than getting fit but Fortune insists that a balance can be reached because the simulations are now so realistic.

"It's just amazing," he said of the extraordinarily high level of technique amongst the youngsters at the Trafford Training Centre. "I don't know what it's down to. Perhaps it's access to TV. They can see Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani showing their skills on TV every week. It's got to be down to TV and the PlayStation and all that stuff."

When pressed on the role of the game consoles, he replied: "It works good and bad. You want kids to be outside and I can only speak from my experience.

"When I was in Cape Town, I didn't have the PlayStation. I was out in the field the whole day and only went inside to eat and sleep. You want kids to have a balance. It's down to the schools and parents to educate them. There's got to be outside activities, even if it's not football, so they can be with their friends and enjoy sport."

Fortune admits he was lucky to get the opportunity to leave his homeland and pursue a career at the top level so he's keen to offer African youngsters a similar chance.

"I'm working for United but I'm hoping to do some stuff back home in South Africa with kids as well," he added in an exclusive interview with ManUtd.com. "It's more to keep them off the street.

"I ran Fortune FC which was going well but had a few problems and didn't work out. Hopefully, I can start again and do even more to get kids into school and just give them a chance. I was given a chance at 14 and what a blessing that was.

"Football is just the best sport in the world, in my opinion. You can find it being played anywhere you go in Africa, across the continent. Football is the only thing that keeps people happy these days.

"I was very fortunate with my upbringing. I had four brothers and one sister and the brothers all played football. There were gang fights almost every day but I was so crazy about football, it kept me away.

"I'm grateful to my parents, they were good parents, and brothers who took care of me because football was my way out. Many kids seem to take the wrong road where they end up in that type of life but football was everything to me and I just hope a lot of kids make the same decision."

Chicharito: I Almost Quit Football

For the last 18 months defenders have struggled to pin down United's fast-moving, fast-talking goal machine, Javier Hernandez.

Thankfully, the club's official monthly magazine, Inside United, managed to halt the speedy Mexican for long enough to speak to him about his first impressions of Old Trafford, comparisons to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the day he almost quit football all together.

You can read part one below. Part two will follow on Sunday...

A few years ago, in Mexico, you thought about quitting football – how close did you come?
Very close. It was about three years ago and I had a lot of questions about whether or not this was the path God wanted me to follow. I wasn’t playing much football, I was being kept in the Reserves... I was disappointed younger players were coming through and getting ahead of me, and it really got me down, even away from football. I talked a lot with my parents, my grandparents, my sister and my girlfriend about my situation, and they helped me realise that this is what I was meant to do. I know now that I’m a very lucky guy and I’m glad I made the decision to keep playing. That experience taught me a lot. Sometimes, if you want something, but you don’t have it, then you can get mad with everyone around you and mad with yourself. I learnt it’s important to enjoy your life and enjoy your football. Ultimately, only God knows what path you will take and whether or not you will fulfil your dreams.

There is a perception that in ‘Latin’ countries, Real Madrid and Barcelona are acclaimed as the two biggest clubs in the world. What is the general view of Manchester United in Mexico?
I am definitely aware the interest has increased since I have been at Old Trafford [laughs]. I’m so thankful to my Mexican fans, though – I have only nice things to say about them and I’m very grateful for their support. But even before I signed, Manchester United was huge, definitely one of the biggest clubs. And it’s not only in South America. In the USA in pre-season, you could see how many people came to watch the team and look for autographs outside the hotel. I read something recently that said the club had something like 330 million fans in the world. That’s amazing. I’ve also seen some footage from when United went to Asia in 2009. The love that people have for this club is spread all over the world and it’s an honour to play here. If you say the words ‘Manchester United’ in any part of the world, people know who you’re talking about.

You watched United play Bayern Munich at Old Trafford on your first trip to Manchester. What do you remember about that experience, and what were your first impressions of the stadium and the fans?
It was an unbelievable feeling. I remember the atmosphere around the ground. It was such an important game and you could really feel it – the fans were great. I couldn’t believe I was sitting inside Old Trafford, the Theatre of Dreams. This was something I had only ever seen on television, only dreamt of being inside. I had heard so many people talk about Old Trafford, but to be there was something very special. It made me so excited to know that in three or four months I might be playing there.

You were visibly upset after the Champions League final against Barcelona. Is that the biggest disappointment you’ve had in your career so far?
No, not at all. Far from it. It was difficult, sure, but if you ask every person in the world if they want to play in a Champions League final for one of the biggest clubs, then I think they would say yes. It was a fantastic experience in my first season at the club. There are more positives than negatives from a personal point of view. The one big negative, of course, is that we lost the match. At least I know that we have a strong team and we have every chance of reaching another final. I’m confident there will be more opportunities for success in the future. So although it was disappointing not to win, those are the kind of occasions you aim to be involved in as a footballer. I’ve definitely had worse moments in football.

You suffered a concussion during pre-season, which meant you missed the start of this campaign; how did you get the knock and how do you feel now?
I just headed the ball on the wrong part of my head. It was a very strong cross, the ball moved in the air, and it hit me on the back of my head. A bit like the goal against Stoke, except a lot harder! It was a little scary, of course. I think all injuries – in football or in life – are scary and it’s never nice to have bad headaches or be throwing up. But I knew I would be OK. This had happened twice before in Mexico, when I’d clashed heads with another player. So I knew what was happening to me, I knew the symptoms and knew I’d feel OK again.

What’s your impression of defenders in the Premier League?
There are a lot of differences to the defenders in Mexico, but I think a lot of that is down to the style of play. I think you have to play differently in every position. The Premier League is quicker, it’s more physical, so you have to adapt. I would say defenders in England have to be a lot sharper, ready to make a tackle or a block in a split second. Because of that, I think some of the best defenders in the world play here – they have to, because the strikers are so good. But I can’t single out one defender over another as my toughest opponent. If I’m honest, I’ve never had an easy game in the Premier League.

People have compared you to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – had you heard of him before you joined United?
Of course. He was a legend at this club, just an unbelievable player. When all the people made those comparisons, the only thing I can say is that I’m not even 10 per cent of Ole. He was incredible. Just turn on MUTV and watch any of the old footage featuring him – he was special. To be honest, I don’t like comparisons very much. Back in Mexico I was always being compared with my father, who was also a striker, and I never liked that. I think everybody is different and deserves to be judged on their own.

Berbatov: Boss Has Personal Touch

Dimitar Berbatov feels Sir Alex is one of the best man-managers in the game as the boss always manages to motivate his troops.

The Bulgarian has had to make the most of his opportunities due to squad rotation this term but realises the manager is always acting in the best interests of the team with his selections.

"Every player is different," he explained to MUTV. "Some players need to be pushed and others need to be talked to separately. For me, he just needs to come to me and tell me what to expect from the game and the training ground, then it is up to me to show I can play every game.

"I cannot speak for other players, but it is always good when the manager comes to ask how you're feeling and makes you feel calm before you play the game. For me, he knows how to motivate you and how to speak with you, about football or some issues you have outside of football.

"Just in the way he speaks with you in the team-talk, before important games he can make you feel like it’s the last game you’ll play in your life so you go out there and want to give everything you have. It’s great - you just need to be there to see it."

Berbatov believes Sir Alex always has his eye on the bigger picture, even if he's keen to mix with the players and keep spirits high.

"Every time a players retires or goes to another club, he always a back-up plan on how to replace the player and build the team again," added the former Spurs striker.

"The way he treats players is unbelievable. Even when not playing or you’re injured, he's still speaking with you and encouraging. He makes you feel special and lets you know your place in the team.

"Even when we’re on the training ground or go to lunch, for example, it’s like he is one of the team - joking around and telling stories, asking quiz questions.

"He really likes the quiz questions and it's good because he relates with the players and he's really good like that."

Gill On Working With Sir Alex

David Gill speaks to MUTV about life with Sir Alex...

As chief executive, I'm involved in all areas but the key working relationship is with the manager at any club. My relationship with Alex has developed over the years. We both have formal meetings and things like that but it's very much built on an informal working relationship, built up on trust over that period. We trust each other implicitly and I think it's been of benefit to Manchester United.

In the world of sport, where things are measured in very short time-frames, to be at one club for 25 years is obviously phenomenal. I think all the usual adjectives and superlatives quite rightly apply in this situation. Frankly, it's amazing to maintain that motivation and hunger for success in a very demanding environment for 25 years and it's quite rightly regarded as a brilliant achievement. I think his record is there for everyone to see. He's managed to sustain that level of success over that period by reinventing the team. Players clearly haven't got a shelf-life of 25 years so he's managed to change teams at appropriate times and deliver sustained success.

The world of sport these days is so competitive and to continue that over that period, I think is truly fantastic. He is clearly as the media see him - very motivated, competitive and wants to win. All those attributes let him have that success but, at the same time, he's witty with a good sense of humour. He's also interested in other areas like racing, fine wines and American history. I think he's got a lot of interests outside of football and he's also a very generous man in terms of support for other managers who have fallen on hard times. He retains friendships for many, many years and his attendance at funerals is probably one of the highest in the country, recognising people who have been in his life and honouring them when they sadly pass away. He has many, many attributes much wider than the driven man you see on TV week in and week out.

He's very supportive, very loyal and, at the same time, he's very black and white with firm opinions. Most successful people do have firm opinions and stick to them. Certainly, it'll be difficult to replace him - it's naive to say anything other than that but we are a great club whose values go back in history to our heritage to the 50s and 60s and the last 25 years with Alex. To continue with that, the new manager needs to understand those values and the vision for the club and must buy into that. The important point to make is the new manager, whenever that may be and whomever that may be, will be taking over a great, great club, in a great, great sport and Alex, in particular, will want to make sure he inherits a great squad. That's our goal - to make sure when the new manager comes in he does have a great squad to work with in terms of age and profile etc.

Alex's legacy to United is to my mind very clear - delivering an unprecedented period of success in the Manchester United way. By that, I mean attractive football using young players - both homegrown and buying players when necessary like Ronaldo and Rooney, but actually developing our own players. That record is there for everyone to see and that legacy is very clear also. Within that, he's made sure he's cemented United's position as one of the top clubs in world football. We're very well respected clearly in this country and around the world, you only have to see our following there on tour in America and Asia, plus in Europe when you speak to any other club. United are rightly held in very high esteem down in no small measure to what Alex has achieved in the last 25 years.

What adjectives would I use to describe Alex? Competitive, determined, generous and fascinating. All those sort of things - on and off the pitch. I wouldn't say I'm exempt from the hairdryer but I would say I can give as good as I get. The important thing I notice from Alex is there's been probably half a dozen of these hairdryer-type moments give and take over the last eight years as chief executive.

The important thing is he never sulks, he never carries it on and we move on. That's a great thing about Alex, he can have an opinion and blow his top but it's forgotten like that and I think that's the true measure of the man.

Tomasz Issues Statement

United keeper Tomasz Kuszczak has issued the following statement to ManUtd.com following media stories earlier this week.

"In response to recent press reports in the English media, I would like to set the record straight by clarifying that I did not use the word ‘slave’ in a recent interview I gave to the Polish newspaper SuperExpress, about my current position at Manchester United Football Club.

"At no point during the interview did I use the word ‘slave’, or imply that the Club was treating me like a ‘slave’. Indeed what I did say has either been misinterpreted or mis-reported.

"It is important to clear this mis-information up because I have the utmost respect for the Club and have not described my relationship with the Club in this way because it is simply not the case."

Sir Alex: Eye For A Buy

From Cantona to Cole, Choccy to Chicharito, the money spent by Sir Alex has been well repaid.

A major factor in his success has been his ability to spot a player who could potentially shine in a red shirt. Names like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Javier Hernandez, Nemanja Vidic and even Cristiano Ronaldo were little known outside of their home nations before the manager swooped to propel those players into the Manchester United hall of fame.

Sure, not every import has prospered, but, percentage-wise, few other managers can match Sir Alex's hit rate. And while he’s adept at spotting a good deal and driving a hard bargain, he’s equally prepared to splash the cash when he gets a big star in his sights.

Sir Alex has instigated three British record-transfer deals - paying £7m to sign Andy Cole from Newcastle United in January 1995, four times that figure (£28.1m) to Lazio in July 2001 for Juan Sebastian Veron and £29.1m to acquire Rio Ferdinand from Leeds in July 2002. He's also been involved in the world's most expensive transfer to date, selling Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid in 2009 for £80m - making a profit of £67.25m.

Transfer-market teams
Bargain XI
Serious snips considering their service:

Peter Schmeichel (£550k, 1991)
Denis Irwin (£625k, 1990)
Steve Bruce (£825k, 1987)
Nemanja Vidic (£6m, 2006)
Patrice Evra (£5.5m, 2006)
Andrei Kanchelskis (£650k, 1991)
Lee Sharpe (£180k, 1988)
Brian McClair (£825k, 1988)
Javier Hernandez (£7m, 2010)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (£1.5m, 1996)
Eric Cantona (£1m, 1992)

Big-name Buy XI
Cost a few quid but worth every penny:

Edwin van der Sar (est. £2m, 2005)
Gary Pallister (£2.3m, 1989)
Rio Ferdinand (£30m, 2002)
Paul Ince (£1.5m, 1989)
Roy Keane (£3.75m, 1993)
Cristiano Ronaldo (£12.2m, 2003)
Mark Hughes (£1.8m, 1988)
Andy Cole (£6m, 1995)
Dwight Yorke (£12.6m, 1998)
Ruud van Nistelrooy (£19m, 2001)
Wayne Rooney (£27m, 2004)

Welbeck Tips Cleverley For Top

Manchester United youngster Tom Cleverley has the potential to develop into a world-class player, according to team-mate Danny Welbeck.

Midfielder Cleverley, who spent time on loan at Wigan last season, has made a big impact at Old Trafford this term despite some injury setbacks.

The 22-year-old's impressive displays for United have earned him call-ups to Fabio Capello's senior England squad, although he is yet to win a cap.

Cleverley is not involved with the national squad preparing for Saturday's friendly with Spain due to an ankle problem, but Welbeck is, having also broken through at that level in recent months.

The striker is another United player to have caught the eye following a loan spell elsewhere, notching five goals for the Red Devils this campaign after spending 2010-11 with Sunderland.

Given Welbeck and Cleverley both came through the youth ranks at Old Trafford over the last few years, the former is well aware of what the latter has to offer - and believes there is plenty more to come.

"I think he can become a world-class player," Welbeck, 20, told United Review.

"Football is such a simple game, it's how hard you make it for yourself. Tom keeps it so simple and it is hard to do that when you're in centre-midfield, but Tom does that.

"He gets the ball, passes it, moves into space and he's just always there as an extra option every time you've got the ball.

"He's really good to play with, I enjoy playing with him so much and he's got the awareness, the vision and the ability to pick out a pass and actually produce a final pass as well.

"He's just going to carry on improving. You can see that every single day in training. He's a really good player."

He added: "We are really good friends off the field and quite a few people come up to us and tell us that it shows on the field.

"We've been through the same training schedule growing up through the academy, the same coaches who have taught us the same things, so we're on the same wavelength and we know each other's games inside out, more or less."

Kuszczak Bemoans United Treatment

Goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak has claimed he is being treated like a "slave" by Manchester United after a proposed loan move to Leeds was blocked.

The Poland international was keen to join the Championship club to boost his chances of selection for Euro 2012.

But according to the 29-year-old, his request was turned down by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

In comments reported by a number of national newspapers, Kuszczak said: "I've become a slave to Manchester."

The Pole added: "I'm frustrated but I don't want to slander or criticise Ferguson. It's not my style.

"I've talked to Ferguson recently. I asked him to let me leave the club now, before the January transfer window.

"I told him I want to play and get back into the national team, because Euro 2012 [which Poland will co-host with Ukraine] is just around the corner - but it seems he doesn't care.

"The possibility of a two-month loan to Leeds United came up two weeks later. The club blocked it.

"It was a glimmer of hope for me. It would have reminded the Poland manager about me - but I didn't get the club's approval.

"I have respect for Ferguson because, for me, he's a great manager, but I hope he will let me go in January."

KUSZCZAK UNITED CAREERContinue reading the main story 2006-07: 13 appearances
2007-08: 18 appearances
2008-09: 8 appearances
2009-10: 14 appearances
2010-11: 10 appearances
2011-12: 0 appearances

Park: Boss Is Rotation Master

Ji-sung Park has hailed Sir Alex's ability to manipulate the squad over the course of a season.

The boss' careful tinkering with the team means nobody is guaranteed a place and the South Korean didn't start a Premier League game until the win against Norwich last month. Since then, the midfielder has been in the XI for the matches with Liverpool, Everton and Sunderland and he trusts the manager's rotation policy.

It's not an easy skill to pull off with so many players to contend with but Sir Alex is a past master at the practice after being one of the first managers to realise what is required to compete on all fronts in the modern game.

"He knows how to encourage the players and use the players," Park explained to ManUtd.com. "Managers now don’t just use 11 players, they have to care about all the squad of 25 or more players. He can’t make everyone happy because only 11 players play, but the other players have to give 100 per cent of themselves for the club, and he can make them do that. That’s a great ability of his."

Sir Alex's tactical nous and unique level of experience is also helping to ensure the Reds remain challenging for honours at home and abroad and Park is quick to appreciate this.

"He knows past and present things about football," added the 30-year-old. "He knows how things have changed in 25 years and he’s able to keep a high quality of football, so that’s why he’s enjoying it.

"Nobody can have that kind of experience. Some people might have five or ten years in a job; he’s got 25 years here so he knows how things have changed and he can succeed in the future as well. It’s something that only he’s got."

Neville Commends The Manager

Gary Neville speaks about Sir Alex's 25 years at the helm...

How would you sum up Sir Alex’s achievements?
To be at this club for so long is staggering. You would never believe that it could happen. Manchester United had Sir Matt Busby, so to have someone who has replicated his longevity at the club and surpassed his success, you would never believe it could be achieved. That’s the magnitude of what Sir Alex Ferguson has done for the club, and more than that: the success, the way he’s played, bringing through young players and the performance levels over that time. Everything has been right.

What do you think is his greatest achievement?
The success with different teams over a long period. Over the 25 years he’s had to build four or five teams in that period, it’s not just one team that he’s inherited or bought. He’s had to change it and move with the times. You’re probably talking about five teams he’s built over 25 years to achieve this success. A manager struggles to build one team, but for one manager to build five successful teams at this club is unbelievable.

How much success hinged on the promotion of youth?
He said that if we were good enough we would always get the chance and he stood by that. We joined in 1992 and you never think one of you can come through, let alone six or seven of you coming through and playing in the same first team for 10 years together. That will be one of the focal points of his legacy: bringing that ’92 team through and winning the European Cup with them seven years later.

What do you recall of breaking into the first team?
The real starter for us was the first day of 1995/96 when he put six or seven of us in that first day at Aston Villa and said ‘look, away you go lads. This is it’. We had a bad start, but then we won three games in the next seven days after that and we just felt unbeatable. We’d always won trophies as young players, every trophy we could, so this was the next progression for us. We’d never not won. In our first year together as a team we won the Double, and he knew it was coming. He saw it coming before everyone else, he had faith in us and we delivered for him.

What’s his legacy?
Longevity and success. The type of football he’s played, the young players he’s brought through, so many things. But mainly the success. To be honest, Manchester United is the football club and it has to win trophies, has to achieve things and that’s what he’s done. He’s lifted more trophies for this club than any other manager in its history and that will be his legacy.

Vidic Delight At Defending

Nemanja Vidic is delighted United have got back to basics by defending from the front in the wake of the derby day defeat.

The commanding skipper felt a lot of Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck's efforts went unheralded on Saturday as a fourth consecutive clean sheet was secured against Sunderland - the first time the club have managed this feat since 2008/2009 during Edwin van der Sar's record-breaking run of shut-outs.

After Sir Alex conceded the Reds needed to tighten things up and stop allowing so many shots on goal, the hard work at Carrington has paid off with wins against Aldershot, Everton, Otelul Galati and the Black Cats, without letting in a single goal.

"I think we have improved defensively," Vidic asserted to MUTV. "We defend as a team, all 11 players. Even Chicha and Welbeck up front - they play for the team and helped us to defend well and that's a big reason for us getting three points. We know we should have played better and created more chances, but this will come. We just have to find the balance and I'm sure we will get it."

Rio Ferdinand partnered his pal at the heart of the defence and the presence of the vastly-experienced duo should help the champions keep plenty more clean sheets when the domestic action gets underway again after the international break.

"Rio is so important for our team," the Serbian explained. "The experience he has and the confidence he gives to other players around him is very important, especially when you have young players in your team. Today he played on the left-hand side and he had a great performance. I hope he will stay fit because the team will have more chance to win trophies."

Sir Alex's Reign: 2006-2011

Even Sir Alex was slightly surprised his emerging team were able to overcome Chelsea in 2006/2007, rating his ninth Barclays Premier League triumph as one of his very best.

A thrilling comeback at Everton, displaying the sort of spirit that has become the hallmark of the boss' sides, set up a first title success in three years with a derby win at Manchester City prompting the deposed champions to form a guard of honour at Stamford Bridge in May. But the Goodison triumph drained the Reds and a 3-2 lead against AC Milan in the Champions League semi-final was surrendered in the second leg.

"I have no hesitation putting the championship win at the top of the tree because, for me at any rate, it was the least expected," conceded the manager. "We had three blank years in the league and a lot of fans seemed to think it was the end of the road but there was rebuilding to do and I am just pleased that we have got our house back in order so speedily." Chelsea exacted some revenge in the first FA Cup final back at Wembley, with Didier Drogba, settling a tight, dour match in extra time, but Sir Alex's thoughts were already focused on another Champions League win. "Don't worry, success in Europe will come," he predicted.

Twelve months later - late into the Moscow night on 21 May, 2008 - another incredible season was completed when Edwin van der Sar saved Nicolas Anelka's spot-kick. The Reds had already been crowned English league champions again, Ryan Giggs fittingly scoring the clincher at Wigan on the final day while equalling Sir Bobby Charlton's all-time appearance record. To become kings of Europe again, the Reds had to edge out Barcelona over two tense semi-finals with Paul Scholes' stunner setting up the date with Chelsea in owner Roman Abramovich's native Russia.

Of course, this was the season when Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed his status as a world-class talent - scoring a remarkable 42 goals including the opener in the Champions League final. There were poignant scenes ahead of the derby with City that marked the 50th anniversary of the Munich disaster - even if the result was a surprise defeat - and two wins over Arsenal at Old Trafford (4-0 in the FA Cup and 2-1 in the league) were among the high points. "Our players have a good future ahead of them and though I will be gone before some of them reach their peak, I want to be part of it," enthused the boss. "It's too exciting to leave it all behind!"

United went close to repeating a domestic and European Double again the following year, only to be undone in the Champions League final by Barcelona, emerging as one of the all-time great teams under Pep Guardiola, in Rome. Domestic superiority, for a third successive year, was underlined not only by a four-point winning margin at the top of the table but also by the breathtaking demolition of Arsenal at the semi-final stage of Europe's premier competition. Ronaldo continued to shine after being convinced by Sir Alex to postpone thoughts of a move to Real Madrid and a goalless draw at Arsenal clinched the title following another vital win at the happy hunting ground that was the JJB (now DW) Stadium.

The Carling Cup also sat proudly in the trophy cabinet despite a reliance on some of the fringe performers in the squad with one of them, Ben Foster, the hero in the penalty shoot-out after a goalless final with Spurs. Meanwhile, the FIFA Club World Cup ensured yet more silverware was on show at Old Trafford, Wayne Rooney hitting the winner against LDU Quito, even if Zenit St Petersburg ruined hopes of landing the UEFA Super Cup by beating the ten-man Reds in Monaco.

The outstanding run in the league came to an end - albeit by only one point - as Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea did the Double in 2009/2010. Didier Drogba's eventual winner in a key game in M16 in April looked clearly offside and the only goal at Stamford Bridge between the two sides, claimed by John Terry, was also hotly disputed. United refused to give up the trophy without a struggle, Scholes scoring in the dying seconds at City for instance, but a draw at Blackburn was ultimately to prove costly with Chelsea emphatically ending any thoughts of some last-day drama by walloping Wigan 8-0.

There were some painful defeats - at home to League One Leeds in the FA Cup and against an Arjen Robben-inspired Bayern Munich in Europe after Rafael was sent off - but it was all about fine margins as always. At least Wayne Rooney really stepped up to the plate after Ronaldo's summer departure to Madrid for a record £80million, and it was his headed winner at Wembley that at retained the Carling Cup to ensure the season was not to be a trophyless one. So, despite the disappointment against Barcelona, the boss was right to say: "Now we have put our regrets behind us, I've got to say I believe we had a pretty decent season."

Obviously that was the case, even without hindsight, and the feat of moving ahead of Liverpool in terms of league title wins was only delayed by a year. The burning desire to make it 19 and 'knock the Scousers off their perch' as the manager had famously once alluded to, drove the team on to again overtake Chelsea and also see off Arsenal's faltering challenge. Dimitar Berbatov's goalscoring form helped him land a share of the Golden Boot award and, once again, the Reds held their nerve in the run-in.

A 2-1 win at a rocking Old Trafford defeated Chelsea again, after two wins over the Blues in the Champions League, with new boy Javier Hernandez scoring early on and a 1-1 draw at Ewood Park thanks to a Rooney penalty, put United out of sight at the Barclays Premier League summit - ensuring this point was rather different to the one managed against Rovers a year earlier. Overtaking Liverpool's record had been a key goal for the supporters all season but, against the odds for some pundits, the club also progressed all the way to the Champions League final again - for the third time in four glorious seasons.

Barcelona again proved too tough a nut to crack in the final a Wembley but the future looks bright within the ranks after the much-vaunted youth team deservedly lifted the FA Youth Cup following a thrilling run in the prestigious competition. City finished strongly to not only lift the FA Cup after edging out the Reds in an all-Manchester semi-final, but also end up level on points with second-placed Chelsea to deliver a warning of their rapidly-growing threat.

As the manager passes the 25-year landmark in charge of United, it is merely another challenge for him to overcome and he wouldn't have it any other way. Liverpool, Blackburn, Arsenal and Chelsea have all suggested they could be top dogs for a sustained period of time in England, only for Sir Alex to reinvent and reinvigorate his side to reach greater heights. This very week, the boss said: "I've not really reflected on it. All I can say is I'm looking forward to the next 25 years." And so to the next chapter in this compelling story of one of the greatest managers the world has ever seen.

Sir Alex timeline
2006-07: United win the Premier League by six points

2006-07: Chelsea edge the FA Cup final and Milan knock United out of Europe

2007-08: In the 50th year since Munich, the title is retained

2007-08: Shoot-out glory in Moscow as Chelsea are beaten

2008-09: Boss celebrates 50 years in professional football

2008-09: The Reds beat Quito to win the Club World Cup

2008-09: A third Premier League in a row is secured

2008-09: Barcelona defy United in the Champions League final in Rome

2009-10: Sir Alex overtakes Sir Matt as United's longest-serving manager

2009-10: The Carling Cup is won, but Reds lose the title race by a point

2010-11: A record 19th league title is clinched at Blackburn

2010-11: Barcelona again prove a step too far in the Champions League final

Sir Alex's Reign: 2001 - 2006

With the manager's impending retirement casting a cloud over the season, it was perhaps inevitable that the Reds would struggle to hit the heights in 2001/02. The solution was provided by Sir Alex himself as, in February, he reversed his decision to quit following consultation with his wife Cathy.

The manager had designs on what could have been a glorious swansong in the Champions League final in Glasgow and, although his team came agonisingly close to fulfilling that wish, the campaign was a trophyless one with Arsenal claiming the title as United lost nine times in the league. Although some memorable games were played out (including a 4-3 defeat at Newcastle, 4-3 success at Leeds and amazing 5-3 wins at Spurs and West Ham), the season as a whole was not one of Ferguson's finest even if the best news possible came with his decision to stay on and sign a new contract. Injuries to Roy Keane and David Beckham proved crucial as, despite Ruud van Nistelrooy's explosive debut term, United had to settle for third place behind the Gunners and old foes Liverpool.

Bayer Leverkusen put paid to dreams of a Real Madrid-United Champions League final with their surprise semi-final aggregate win and it clearly haunted the boss. "While I was disappointed personally that the chance to win the European Cup in my native city had passed, the fact that we as a club had failed narrowly to reach our own goal was even more distressing," he stated.

The manager's retirement U-turn began to reap dividends the following season - even if some critics were writing him off in the first half of the campaign. Defending champions Arsenal were eight points clear of the Reds at one point with defeats to Leeds and Manchester City proving particularly painful. Typically, United dug in - Diego Forlan's double at Liverpool, a 2-0 win against Arsenal and, an incredible last-gasp New Year's Day victory against Sunderland warmed all the Red Army's hearts. A Worthington Cup final defeat to Liverpool in Cardiff was followed a month later by a European exit to Real Madrid, even if it was in exhilirating circumstances. A spellbinding 4-3 triumph at Old Trafford wasn't enough to overturn the 3-1 first-leg deficit and the visitors' Brazilian hat-trick hero Ronaldo was afforded a standing ovation which said much about the true nature of the home fans.

Those supporters were rewarded with immense joy and satisfaction in the league as van Nistelrooy struck in a vital draw at Arsenal and again to wrap up a 2-0 victory against the Gunners' rivals Spurs that took United to the brink of glory. "I have got to be honest and say that the success was extra sweet and satisfying because it was achieved against all the odds," crowed the boss. Van Nistelrooy hit a treble against Charlton to race to 79 goals in his first 100 appearances and the Dutchman scored again at Everton, even if the final match was more memorable for being Beckham's last in a Red shirt.

So the 2003/2004 started without the homegrown midfield talent, who was allowed to join Real Madrid after much speculation that the boss had grown tired of his increasing celebrity status. Cristiano Ronaldo arrived in his place as a raw, exciting prodigy but this was the season of the so-called 'Invincibles' as Arsenal went the whole league programme unbeaten to emerge as worthy champions. Arsene Wenger's Gunners may not have beaten United (0-0 and 1-1) but there was to be no customary surge in the second half of the campaign as Rio Ferdinand's lengthy suspension for missing a drugs test ripped the heart out of the defence. Van Nistelrooy continued to score goals aplenty and Tim Howard earned a place in the PFA Team of the Season, even though he was at fault for Porto's last-minute winner in the Champions League that would ultimately change the course of history.

Jose Mourinho's shock European triumph catapulted the charismatic Portuguese coach into wealthy owner Roman Abramovich's thoughts at Chelsea and new title rivals were to emerge. For now, Arsenal were unbeatable in the league and third-placed United had to settle for a slice of success in the FA Cup, for the first time in five years. Much of the hard work was done at the semi-final stage when inflicting a rare reverse on Wenger's team thanks to Paul Scholes' winner at Villa Park as Millwall were swept aside in the Millennium Stadium final with Ronaldo showing an obvious thirst for the big stage with a fine display.

Starting the 2004/05 season with a 1-0 defeat in Mourinho's first game in charge of Chelsea, this was one game of catch-up the team were unable to ever look capable of pulling off. A new Stretford End idol was purchased on deadline day, Wayne Rooney signing from Everton after shining at Euro 2004, and the teenager introduced himself to his new fans with a stunning debut hat-trick against Fenerbahce. With Ronaldo starting to mature, the two youngsters offered a glimpse of a bright future but Chelsea simply proved too powerful, not only romping the league by 12 points with United a further six points adrift of runners-up Arsenal, but also winning twice at Old Trafford - including in the Carling Cup semi-finals.

AC Milan put paid to any European aspirations so it was left to the FA Cup to provide some solace again. After a barnstorming run, during which the only semi-scare came against non-league minnows Exeter, United dominated the final against Arsenal but were beaten on penalties with Jens Lehmann decisively saving Scholes' spot-kick.

There was plenty to ponder for the boss, who had overseen his 1,000th game in charge of the club during a Champions League tie against Lyon, but, unfortunately, Chelsea proved impossible to peg back the following season, which was hardly surprising considering Mourinho's team won 15 of their first 16 matches en route to retaining the title. Mourinho, backed by Abramovich's millions, had laid down a taxing challenge and the consistency of his side led to the doom-mongers prophesising that United would never be able to regain any dominance of the English game. The Reds were good enough to finish second but were still eight points away from the West Londoners and a 3-0 loss at Stamford Bridge at the champions' coronation was made even more painful by a serious injury to Rooney that threatened his involvement in the World Cup.

It felt like the end of an era in many respects. George Best, the iconic Old Trafford legend, passed away in November 2005 to prompt emotional scenes and inspirational captain Keane left the club in sudden circumstances. With a group-stage exit in the Champions League and FA Cup loss at Liverpool to deal with, perhaps it is possible to almost understand why some people were writing off the most successful manager in the club's history.

One of the many reasons to always back the boss is because he is usually proved right. The Carling Cup was secured with a 4-0 walloping of Wigan that not only illustrated Rooney's growing influence but signalled the end of van Nistelrooy's goal-laden United career. Many fans wouldn't have been shouting from the rafters but one man knew it carried greater significance - providing the younger players with a vital taste of success. "I have always argued that no season is a total write-off if you can point to a piece of silverware," he contested. "Yes, I know the League Cup doesn't compare with the Champions League but I see it as a stepping stone to bigger and better things." Once again, Sir Alex was spot on his judgement. It was, indeed, to prove a stepping stone to greater success with Rooney and Ronaldo ready to become world-class talents.

Sir Alex timeline
2001-02: Reverses retirement decision in February

2001-02: Bayer Leverkusen deny Sir Alex a dream Glasgow date with Real Madrid

2002-03: Real Madrid knock United out in a classic European tie

2002-03: Arsenal are reeled in as the Reds make it eight titles in 11 years

2003-04: United win the FA Cup by beating Millwall 3-0

2003-04: Arsenal's Invincibles win the title, Porto knock Reds out of Europe

2004-05: Wayne Rooney arrives

2004-05: 1,000th game, against Lyon

2004-05: FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal on penalties ends hopes of silverware

2005-06: Roy Keane leaves United

2005-06: A 4-0 romp against Wigan delivers the Carling Cup