Lindegaard's Pride

Anders Lindegaard was delighted with another clean sheet, his fourth in five games this term, as the champions triumphed 1-0 at Aston Villa.

The confident keeper made one fine save from James Collins' header, but was rarely troubled as Oscar Cardozo's strike for Benfica in September remains the only time he's been beaten this season.

"Clean sheets are like goals for goalkeepers," Lindegaard told MUTV and ESPN afterwards. "In 10 games, nobody will remember how many fantastic saves were made - they will remember how many clean sheets were kept. For my sake, I would rather win 1-0 than 10-1 because I am a goalkeeper and I want a clean sheet.

"It was a very important win. We were under a lot of pressure because of the other results so I think we did very well and played brilliantly in defence. It was top class and very enjoyable.

"It's not easy - if it looks easy, then it's a big compliment to the goalkeeper. One of the biggest compliments you can get as a keeper is if you make difficult things look easy.

"You have to be 100 per cent focused all the way. I think, personally, one of my best attributes is my ability to focus and stay focused. I don't find it very difficult."

Lindegaard is pleased to have such a competitive relationship with David De Gea as the pair continue to enjoy plenty of first-team football.

"It's very good," explained the Dane. "It keeps us both sharp. I enjoy working with him very much. He is a great lad and always comes in with a smile and a good attitude. It's very enjoyable and it makes us both better."

Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand were also praised by Lindegaard for their contribution to another shut-out.

"They are two absolute world-class players and I think what you saw today was some of the best defensive work you can see on this planet from some of the best defensive players on this planet as well. It's very enjoyable to play behind them because they make it look easy."