Hernandez Claims Hat-trick

Javier Hernandez is claiming a first hat-trick for Manchester United – even if most observers have awarded the Reds' second goal at Villa Park to home defender Ron Vlaar.

The Mexican showed the same determination in his post-match interview as he did when he inspired his team's comeback from 2-0 down to 3-2.

"I’ve seen the replay and I think it’s going on target," Chicharito told MUTV.

"The defender tried to get it away but I think he kicked it in the same direction as I shot."

Chicharito symbolically carried the matchball off the pitch, and asked his team-mates to sign it in the United dressing room. But even if his hat-trick is eventually taken off him by the Premier League's Dubious Goals Committee, the half-time substitute will be happy to know he played a pivotal part in the Reds' thrilling victory.

"It felt unbelievable to score the winner," said Chicharito, referring to the final goal that was definitely his – a header from van Persie's free-kick.

"But the most important thing is we get the three points and we’re still on the top with a four-point gap. We’re very happy."

Chicharito was sent onto the pitch for the start of the second half, when United were trailing 1-0 to the first of Andreas Weimann's two goals for Aston Villa. What were Sir Alex's instructions to him?

"To do my best, to do the things I have been doing in my last few games and on the training ground as well," the smiling match-winner revealed.

"I try to do that every time, to help my team with a lot of effort and to do the things I have done today."

United went 2-0 down early in the second half, but eight minutes later Paul Scholes picked out Chicharito with a long pass from the halfway line and the Mexican made his first impact on the match at a crucial time.

"I think it was very important. Sometimes you can score late as well and get the three points and that’s part of the game, but thankfully we recovered quickly after they got the second one.

"In the history of Manchester United, we never want to give up until the end. The game is for 90 minutes and you need to play until the last minute.

"We need to improve because we’re conceding a lot of goals but thankfully we got the three points.

"I have a lot of best moments with this club and this is one of them."