Buttner: We Must Fight

Alex Buttner insists there is no crisis at Manchester United and that the team will soon start winning Premier League games again.

The Red Devils have won just one of their last five games in the top-flight, leaving them 12th in the table after six games - eight points off the pace set by leaders Arsenal.

Dutch left-back Buttner was preferred to Patrice Evra for the home game against West Brom on Saturday, having also played the full 90 minutes in the Capital One Cup victory over Liverpool in midweek.

However, Buttner and his team-mates were on the end of a shock reverse to Albion as Morgan Amalfitano and Saido Berahino struck in the second half to hand the visitors a 2-1 victory.

"We're very disappointed to lose the game. It is very disappointing for everyone," said the 24-year-old.

"Normally we have to win this game at home but no, I don't think it is a crisis.

"We have lost games but we have to focus and fight in every game to win it.

"Of course the crowd want to see Manchester United winning - the players want that too."

Buttner has backed United to quickly turn their domestic form around, with a clash at Sunderland next up on Saturday evening after Wednesday's Champions League trip to Ukraine to face Shakhtar Donetsk.

"Our season starts now and we can win many games," said Buttner. "You have to trust the players and everyone.

"I think we can do this as a team. We are going to win games, I am sure."

Moyes 'Rejected' Fergie Advice

David Moyes rejected Sir Alex Ferguson's advice to retain his Manchester United backroom team, according to Eric Steele.

Former United goalkeeping coach Steele was axed by Moyes in the close season, along with assistant manager Mike Phelan and first-team coach Rene Meulensteen.

Moyes chose to bring Chris Woods, Steve Round and Jimmy Lumsden with him from Everton, whilst also appointing former United and Toffees midfielder Phil Neville in his first full-time coaching role.

United's 2-1 home defeat by West Brom on Saturday means the club has now made its worst start to a league season for 24 years.

With the pressure already on Moyes right from the start of his Old Trafford reign, Steele has now revealed how the summers changes were handled.

"He spoke to me, Mick and Rene," Steele is quoted as telling fanzine United We Stand. "I told him I thought it was a brave decision.

"He listened to the manager's advice, but he wanted to be his own man."

Steele arrived at United in 2008, having previously worked at Manchester City, and is credited with turning David De Gea into one of the league's best goalkeepers after a shaky start.

The 59-year-old says he respects Moyes' decision but is not convinced it was right for the club.

"I didn't want to leave. Why would I?" he added. "I knew that David was coming in and wondered who he'd bring.

"You had the United perspective - the manager saying, 'Keep what we've got, keep the continuity, work with them and they'll guide you through. You're taking on a massive machine here. You've gone from Marks and Spencer's to Harrods.'

"Then there's David's viewpoint, which I understand. I know him professionally. I know his work ethic, his hands-on approach.

"I don't blame him for doing what he did. I've been in the game long enough to know how it is.

"But it's ironic, isn't it? You've just been part of a team that has had a great season and won the league. David De Gea's had his best season. Does it make sense that you're not retained to continue the good work? Sadly, that's out of my hands."

United find themselves in 12th spot in the Premier League table after six games, eight points off the pace set by leaders Arsenal.

Despite the upheaval at Old Trafford, Steele still thinks the personnel in Moyes' squad will start producing better results.

"There were massive changes - the manager, chief executive, Scholes retiring and the coaches," said Steele.

"But there are enough players in that dressing room to win when it really starts.

"My time was up, I'm proud of what I did at United and I have great memories."

Alan Hansen: Man. United Have 'Alarm Bells Ringing'

Manchester United risk repeating errors which led to Liverpool's problems in the early 1990s, says Alan Hansen.

Hansen was part of the title-winning Liverpool side of 1990, but they have failed to win the league since.

New United boss David Moyes made just one notable summer signing in Marouane Fellaini, and his side have made their worst league start for 24 years.

"Liverpool began to flounder because they failed to replace good players with better ones," said Hansen.

The former Scotland defender added: "The club has paid a heavy price in the two decades since."

United won the Premier League last season under Sir Alex Ferguson, who retired at the end of the campaign and recommended fellow Scot Moyes as his successor.

But the 50-year-old has had a tough first three months in charge at Old Trafford.

United failed in their attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas in the summer and were also unsuccessful in moves for Everton defender Leighton Baines, Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera and Real Madrid left-back Fabio Coentrao.

The Red Devils were also linked with Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alacantara, who chose to join Bayern Munich.

Moyes's side have lost three of their opening six league games to make their worst start to a top-flight campaign since the 1989-90 season.

"It is too early to say we are now witnessing the end of the empire at Old Trafford," said Hansen in his weekly column for the Daily Telegraph.

"But alarm bells are ringing and there are clear similarities between the United of 2013 and the last Liverpool team to win the title back in 1990.

"I played in that Liverpool team 23 years ago and it was in the bottom three of the eight title-winning sides I played in at Anfield.

"It was an ageing team, one which Kenny Dalglish was looking to break up and build again with new players. In the past the club had successfully combined winning and rebuilding, but this time was different."

The Match of the Day pundit, 58, added: "United have more depth and quality than the 1990 Liverpool side, but I would say that the two first teams are comparable in terms of the issues they faced.

"Both could be described as ageing teams that needed breaking up, but with issues over those brought in as younger replacements."

United lost 2-1 to West Brom on Saturday and face a testing trip to Shakhtar Donetsk in a Champions League group game on Wednesday

Their start to the season is the worst by the defending champions since Blackburn Rovers in 1995, when former England striker Alan Shearer played for the Ewood Park club.

"We, too, had changed managers as Ray Harford was promoted. He, too, did not get enough new players in," said Shearer, 43.

"He wanted to give the current ones the chance to prove themselves under him. It didn't work.

"Champions still need to be tested and have their places under threat."

Shearer, also a pundit on Match of the Day, believes United are "an ordinary team" without the influence of Ferguson.

But he added: "Right now, everyone needs patience. Moyes, for me, is the right man.

"The players need to rediscover the spirit that used to drag them to victory no matter what.

"They are vulnerable at the minute and every team in the Premier League knows it. The air of invincibility has gone."

Moyes: We Can't Conquer Europe

Manchester United boss David Moyes says his team do not have sufficient class to win the Champions League this season.

United have lost three of their opening six games in the Barclays Premier League under Moyes, with the latest setback coming in a 2-1 home defeat to West Brom at Old Trafford on Saturday.

The Premier League champions were unsuccessful in their pursuit of a number of summer transfer targets, with interest in Cesc Fabregas, Leighton Baines and, finally, Ander Herrera all coming to nothing, and Moyes is concerned that his squad may lack the quality to challenge for Europe's top club prize.

"To win the Champions League, you need five or six world-class players," he told several national newspapers.

"Look at Bayern Munich, they have it. Look at Barcelona, who had it in the past and Real Madrid, who have maybe got it now. That's the level you have to be at to win it. We've not got that yet but what we have got is experience."

The Red Devils began their Champions League campaign with a 4-2 home win over Bayer Leverkusen earlier this month and face a difficult assignment away to Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.

They have not enjoyed great success in either of their previous two European campaigns under former boss Sir Alex Ferguson, going out at the group stage in 2012 and losing in the last 16 to Real Madrid last season.

Nani Wants More From His Side

Manchester United winger Nani believes his side need to improve their performances after their 2-1 home defeat to West Brom.

The Portugal international made his first Premier League start of the season on Saturday against the Baggies, putting several dangerous crosses into the box.

Nothing came of his hard work tough, and Nani knows that United need to improve all over the pitch if they are to mount a serious title defence.

"First half we controlled the game, but just couldn't score," said Nani.

"After our goal, I thought we were going to play better and get the second goal, but they just took their chances.

"We have a strong team here at United, some good players, so I am in no doubt we will put it right.

"We will just go out and try and win the next one.

"We should be playing better, but sometimes this happens."

The result means this is United's worst start to the season since 1986, while it is West Brom's first win at Old Trafford since 1978. Nani knows that United must avoid other shock defeats from now on.

"We have been in this position before, so we know how to deal with it," he said.

"Everything takes time to work, the fans must be patient, and from the next game, we hope everything is right.

Anderson Calls For Focus

Anderson has called on his team-mates to put Saturday’s disappointing home defeat to West Brom behind them and get back to winning ways against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.

The Reds' no.8, who was unlucky not to get on the score-sheet himself after a first half header crashed against the crossbar, felt that United were unlucky to come away with nothing against the Baggies, but urged the squad to learn from the game and push on.

“I felt we deserved something from the game. West Brom were really tough to play against but we still managed to create some opportunities, we just weren’t able to take them and unfortunately West Brom took theirs," Anderson told MUTV.

The Brazilian said the dressing room was understandably downbeat following the 2-1 loss, but insisted that the players know exactly how they need to respond.

“As always we will continue to work hard on the pitch [in games] and in training as this is demanded at Manchester United," he added. "We want to win every competition we are involved in, so we need to focus now and move on to the next game. We have to show character.

"Everyone knows United have great players and even though the situation is not easy we have to look ahead and think positive.”

Moyes Bemoans Missing Spark

David Moyes had no complaints after Manchester United’s 2-1 home defeat to West Bromwich Albion and was frustrated by his side’s lack of creative spark.

The Baggies won at Old Trafford for the first time since 1978 thanks to goals from Morgan Amalfitano and Saido Berahino, sandwiching Wayne Rooney’s fifth goal of the season.

Moyes felt United were in control for some periods of the game but was unhappy with the overall display and lack of cutting edge.

"It was a poor result and a poor performance – we never really got going," he told MUTV. "We lacked an intensity and spark to our game, and in the end they deserved the win, I can’t argue with that.

"In the first half we had a lot of the ball and tried to move it – we probably controlled a lot of the game – but I thought for all our possession we didn’t create a lot of opportunities. And when we did, we didn’t take them.

"They had a couple of chances on the break and the more we went for it, the more chances they seemed to get.

"We had plenty of forward players out there but we're just not opening teams up. I'm concerned after today but there are a lot of games to go and we'll try to put it right."

As Moyes sought to rescue the game in the second half, he brought on fit-again Robin van Persie and Adnan Januzaj, with the latter’s display one of the few positives from the game.

"Adnan was nervous at first but at least he showed some real positive play," Moyes said. "He created one or two chances and was maybe unlucky not to score in the last minute.

"Robin's injury was a small one. Our plan was to give him some time, though maybe not as long as we gave him in the end."

Moyes has a message for United’s fans as the team look to bounce back in the Champions League against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday, just as the Reds did after last weekend’s derby defeat.

"In football you’re not going to win every game so support your team," he said. "It’s a great club with great players and we’ll do everything we can to put today’s result right."

The Match: Defeat For The Red Devils

Here’s our detailed take on the champions' shock defeat to West Brom…

The match No complaints for United, who didn't build on promising build-up play when the game was scoreless, and were faced with an uphill battle from the moment a pumped up West Brom side forged ahead. Though the Reds responded well to going a goal behind by quickly levelling, the Baggies' counter-response was superb, before a heroic late defensive display closed out a superb win for the visitors.

Goal Wayne Rooney continued his impressive recent run of goalscoring form. Whether his free-kick was a shot or a cross, only he knows, but the Reds' skipper for the day has moved onto 202 goals for the club.

Sub-plot With a tricky Champions League trip to Donetsk looming next week, David Moyes opted against risking Robin van Persie and Patrice Evra from the start, while club captain Nemanja Vidic and player-coach Ryan Giggs were absent entirely.

Star men Nani was United's most menacing attacker for the majority of the game, while Rooney was always available and intent on finding a route back into the game. There were also positives aplenty in the 45-minute display of Adnan Januzaj, whose talent shines bright in his every outing.

The opposition Steve Clarke's Baggies were superb, offering United little time or space in possession, while looking to maximise their own time on the ball. Victor Anichebe's bullish display as a lone striker set the tone for a battling display, and he was surrounded by several heroic performers.

Move of the match United went from defence to attack in the blink of an eye, as Rooney showed staggering composure and skill to arc a wonderful pass into Nani's path. Though the Portuguese winger sprinted clear, his target, Chicharito, was unable to find an onside position to receive possession, and the chance fizzled out.

In the stands Unsurprisingly, the home support were left stunned in the end, despite doing their utmost to raise their side in every late attack. It was the visiting supporters, however, who laughed last and loudest, and were boinging all the way back to the Midlands.

Premier League: Man. United 1 West Bromwich Albion 2

Manchester United slipped to a first home defeat of the season as West Bromwich Albion posted a shock 2-1 victory over the Barclays Premier League champions at Old Trafford.

Despite bouncing back from last weekend’s Manchester derby defeat with a rousing Capital One Cup victory over Liverpool in midweek, David Moyes’ side were unable to break down the well-drilled visitors in open play, and succumbed to two fine goals.

A solo effort from Morgan Amalfitano and Saido Berahino's low strike sandwiched a Wayne Rooney free-kick, but United came no closer to an equaliser than in an injury-time flurry when Michael Carrick's shot was beaten away and substitute Adnan Januzaj fired off-target.

Nani had provided United's most fruitful attacking outlet for most of the afternoon, slinging in several superb crosses, two of which were narrowly ahead of Chicharito while another was headed straight at Boaz Myhill by Rooney.

It was the visitors, however, who spurned the clearest two openings of the first half, as Berahino glanced a header just wide and Stephane Sessegnon blazed horribly over from a corner.

Januzaj was introduced at half-time in place of Shinji Kagawa, but it was the visitors who forged ahead when Amalfitano surged towards goal and cut infield before lifting an impudent finish over David De Gea.

The Baggies' celebrations were quickly cut short, however, as Rooney whipped a free-kick between the visitors' wall and a cluster of onrushing players to level the scores within three minutes, but to their credit, West Brom immediately hit back.

Jonas Olsson headed Amalfitano's corner against the United crossbar, and it was in-keeping with play when Berahino lashed a 20-yard effort past De Gea with 23 minutes remaining.

The home support briefly thought United had levelled when substitute Marouane Fellaini slid home Nani's cross, but the Belgian was correctly flagged offside and, after a late surge in which Myhill beat away Carrick's shot and Januzaj fizzed an effort past the top corner, the Reds were beaten.

Bringing It All Back Home

Former Reds defender Phil Neville spoke to Inside United this month about ‘coming home’ to Old Trafford as a first-team coach…

We know you did some coaching with the England youngsters earlier this year, but if you could have picked one job for your first coaching role it would have been at United wouldn’t it?
Definitely. There is no question this is the dream job for me. When I left eight years ago I always said I wanted to come back to United in some capacity one day. I knew it was probably never going to be as a player so being a coach was the next step. There was never a day that went by where I wasn’t keeping an interest in what was going on at United and to have come back is the perfect scenario for me. I know I need to grasp this opportunity with both hands and make sure I tap into everything that’s going on at this club. So far it’s been fantastic.

Did it feel like coming home on that first day you drove into the Aon Training Complex?
Yes, it did. Usually when you start a new job you have the feeling of butterflies in your stomach, but as soon as I walked through the door and saw Kath on reception [the training ground’s long-serving receptionist] and other familiar faces, it just felt normal. There’s that continuity and that loyalty – it’s what makes this club so successful. The transition could not have been any smoother, but at the same time I know this will probably be the biggest challenge of my career. I’m loving every minute of it.

Ryan Giggs told us it’s almost like starting your career all over again with regard to the coaching roles for you both?
That’s exactly how it feels. You finish your career as an old, experienced player who has been there and done it and then you start your coaching career as someone who is right at the bottom of the ladder again. I think what gives me and Ryan maybe a little bit of a head start is the careers we’ve had and the fact we’ve spent so many years at this club. That gets us a couple of rungs up the ladder, but we both know we still have so much to learn. We want to learn and United is exactly the type of club that can help you learn. It gives you opportunities to grow, both on the playing and staff side, which is really important.

Tell us how the role at the club came about…
My coaching role [in general] has been developing for the last three or four years. I was coming to the end of my career and the boss [David Moyes] wanted me to go on the staff at Everton in the last two years, but I wanted to concentrate on playing and get every ounce of football out of me before I finished. I decided to retire at the end of last season and then, of course, the boss got the United job. We had conversations through the summer and he said there might be an opportunity for me. I had other options, some unbelievable options, one of which was to stay at Everton. I have so much to thank Everton for and they will always have a really special place in my heart, but when push came to shove I just felt this was right.

Is David Moyes relishing the challenges ahead?
Very much so. It’s a big challenge for him and a big challenge for us in supporting him because it’s the biggest club in the world with the biggest expectations. Nothing but the best will do. That’s the challenge, that’s what lies in front of us. The club is steeped in history and we’ve got to make sure we follow those traditions, on and off the pitch. We have to make sure we uphold those traditions. That’s what makes me so excited and why I think myself and Ryan’s roles as staff are so important, because we know those traditions so well.

Steve Round told us you’ve been onto him constantly about learning and trying to absorb as much information as you can…
Yes, I have. I think Roundy goes to bed at night probably locking his door and still hearing me in his ear like a parrot on his shoulder! That’s the way I am. In order to learn, you’ve got to ask questions and learn from people who have great experience, and that’s what Steve has got. He’s got 15 years Premier League experience and, of course, the manager has unbelievable experience. Even Ryan has been through things in his professional career that you’ve got to tap into. There are plenty of people to act as sounding boards and I have to speak to every single one of them.

What’s it like being on the other side of things now as a coach rather than player?
It is different as a coach. You can say things as a player to another player that you can’t say as a coach. You have to form that bit of distance. I’m enjoying it. It’s just fantastic to be on the staff working with top players. I’m looking forward to working with one or two players during the season at different times, like the full-backs or wingers for example, and passing on my experience and the things I was taught as a kid. Even when you’re a first-team player you never stop learning and the same applies as a coach. I want to be a coach that keeps coaching players and keeps teaching them. Every day they come into training is a chance to teach them and make them better. That’s the culture of this club and I want to continue that.

Reds Restored Belief

Old Trafford legend Arthur Albiston enthuses about the midweek win over Liverpool and the performances of players including Ryan Giggs and Chris Smalling...

Without being disrespectful to smaller Championship clubs we could have been drawn against in the Capital One Cup, Liverpool were exactly the team we needed to play after that poor result last weekend.

I think all the United players would hold their hands up and say 'we were awful' against Manchester City. But last night the players restored the belief of everybody walking out of the ground. Our supporters all went home happy after two or three days of doom and gloom.

It was a proper United-Liverpool game, certainly in the way it came to life in the second half. I said to someone before the game that playing under floodlights on a wet, drizzly pitch creates a special atmosphere - and especially against our biggest rivals, the team from the other end of the East Lancs Road. All our fans had wanted was a performance and they definitely got that.

Wayne Rooney was outstanding. He was probably one of the few players who came out of the Man City game at the weekend with a bit of credit. And what about Ryan Giggs? There was an incident in the ninety-third minute when he closed down Steven Gerrard and blocked a ball that was going forward, it came off Gerrard and went out for a throw-in. I've not seen Ryan Giggs do that for a long time - getting the crowd up on their feet. It brought a lump to my throat when I saw it. That shows you what beating Liverpool means to him, even at almost forty years of age. It's great that supporters see that because it shows them it means something to the players.

United had quite a bit of defending to do, against an almost full-blast Liverpool side, and there were a lot of tired players at the end of the match. Luis Suarez was always going to play, he can score a goal out of nothing and he lasted the whole game. David De Gea had to make an important save from Victor Moses. I think if Moses had misheaded it, he would have scored. I think he thought he was scoring anyway with that bullet header but De Gea made a great save.

Everyone played their part. Chris Smalling had a great game at centre-half. Sometimes players can be too tall to play at full-back and centre-half is definitely his best position, where he can get the ball down and give it to other players or clear it when he has to. Jonny Evans came off tired, Alexander Buttner was feeling his hamstring - people like them haven't played many games but some of them worked through the full ninety minutes and will be better for it.

After changing his line-up and beating Liverpool, David Moyes could have a selection headache against West Brom on Saturday. But he'd much rather have that sort of headache than the headache of facing the media after losing 4-1 last Sunday.

The manager knew a lot about Manchester United's players before he came here of course but he's finding out more as he continues to see them at close hand in training. And last night he saw some of them play their first match for a while and they all came through it well.

I see no reason why we can't build on last night's result. We've got a run of fixtures now where you could see us getting a few points. Everybody talked about the difficult start we had and it proved to be difficult. But a lot of teams are dropping points. Liverpool made a great start but then lost at home to Southampton last weekend, City have lost already to Cardiff, Chelsea have lost games that we didn't expect them to and we've lost games that maybe others didn't expect us to.

So it looks as if it's going to be one of those seasons when there could be a lot of teams involved. We weren't going to win or lose the league last Sunday; maybe if there were three games to go and we lost to Man City, it would cost us the league but we've got thirty-odd league games still to play.

If we can put last Sunday's result firmly behind us, we'll have a good chance of racking up some points in the month of October and getting back towards the top of the table.

Arthur Albiston was speaking to ManUtd.com's Adam Bostock.

Thirty Years Of GGMU

Three decades on from the release of 'Glory Glory Man United', Lee Renshaw recalls how he and his father Frank co-wrote the 1983 FA Cup final anthem…

"I remember it like it was yesterday, my dad telling me he’d written a United song. It was after our semi-final win over Arsenal, he’d come up with two verses but couldn’t think of a suitable chorus. I suggested using the fan chant of Glory Glory Man United – and it worked!

"We laid down the track on dad’s four-tracker recorder with just an acoustic guitar and a drum machines, before taking it to producer Peter Tattersall at Strawberry Studios in Stockport. He then played it to the appropriate people at Old Trafford, who couldn’t see it as a football song.

"Thankfully, we convinced EMI to record it properly with an all-singing, all-dancing synthesizer - which created every sound except for the drums and a bit of guitar. And as my dad was overseas, it was down to me, a 16-year-old schoolboy, to produce the track!

"We replayed it to the club and were successful. In fact, Bryan Robson was gobsmacked at the difference in quality and even helped convince the team to sing. They came to the studio and recorded four tracks over the backing, which was an incredible day.

"The sad thing is my name wasn’t put on the record because it was such a quick release, it was just my dad’s name. But it’s not a problem – the fact it’s still played at Old Trafford is good enough for me. It makes me proud, it’s an incredible feeling."

Moyes: Zaha Must Wait For His Turn

Manchester United boss David Moyes has warned Wilfried Zaha he must be patient as he waits to play his first competitive game for the club.

The England international was signed by former United manager Sir Alex Ferguson for £15m in January before being loaned back to Crystal Palace.

Moyes has been keen to keep Zaha at Old Trafford rather than send him out on loan again this season and he played in the Community Shield victory over Wigan at Wembley in August.

That is as near as the 20-year-old has come to the first team but Moyes insists he is still in his long-term plans.

"Wilf is one of the boys we have not been able to have a look at so far," he said.

"We always said we wanted him in. We needed him to see exactly what the level is like, and the boy is doing well.

"But Premier League games are important. We have to win them.

"So whilst there will be some players who get the opportunities sooner rather than later, some will have to wait their time because it is a fact you can only play 11."

Schmeichel Not Confident Over Man. United's Title Chances

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel is "not confident" about his old club's title chances.

United got back on track with a 1-0 win over rivals Liverpool in the League Cup on Wednesday but have suffered league defeats by Brendan Rodgers' side and rivals Manchester City.

"I am not confident we are going to retain the title," Schmeichel said.

"We know we will recover, though this season, with all the changes, is not going to end with the championship."

"I can accept us not winning the title as long as we are competing for it. It is quite competitive this year. If we are not there or thereabouts then I would be worried," added Schmeichel, who won five Premier League trophies with United.

"I think we will be, though, because that is what sort of a club Manchester United is."

The ex-Denmark international kept goal at Old Trafford for eight successful years after Sir Alex Ferguson signed him from Brondby in 1991 and he suggests that it will take new manager David Moyes time to challenge for honours.

But the Dane does not anticipate any major disasters this season, despite a period of change for the champions.

Speaking at a National Football Museum Hall of Fame event, Schmeichel added: "We know we are going to be there or thereabouts again. That is what we do, that is what Manchester United is all about.

"It is not something we take lightly and we know we need to work hard as that is part and parcel of being at Manchester United."

Schmeichel's United honours

Five Premier League trophies
Three FA Cups
One League Cup
Four FA Charity Shields
Uefa Champions League
Uefa Super Cup

Download The Squad Wallpaper

The 2013/14 Manchester United squad took part in the annual photocall on the Old Trafford pitch on Thursday afternoon.

It was the first time in 27 years that the traditional full-squad photo did not feature Sir Alex Ferguson. His successor, David Moyes, was flanked by captain Nemanja Vidic and Ryan Giggs, behind the Barclays Premier League and Community Shield trophies.

Coaches Steve Round, Chris Woods and Jimmy Lumsden were present, along with the rest of the Reds' backroom staff, while summer signing Marouane Fellaini was among the 29 first-team squad members posing in this season’s home kit.

(Click on the image for the original size)

Schmeichel: Moyes Need Time

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has urged the club's fans to be patient with David Moyes and his squad.

United have already lost twice in the Premier League this season, leading some fans to question whether the former Everton manager who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson in July, is the right man to take the club forward.

However, following their 1-0 Capital One Cup win over Liverpool, Schmeichel has backed Moyes to be a success at Old Trafford - as long as he is given time.

"We always knew that whatever happened after Sir Alex, it would be a bumpy road. Someone had to be really brave and take that job," Schmeichel told Sky Sports News.

"We knew every little thing that he does would be scrutinised and reported on in the media. It would be a debate - is he good enough?

"Has he got a few games left before he loses his game? He signed a six-year contract, there's a reason behind the six years.

"People in football have short memories. The start of last season is the same as this season you know.

"We played relatively few number of games and had two defeats one at Everton then Spurs at home and we still managed to win by 13 points.

"I listened to the radio on the way here and they're saying it's not even a top four squad, and I'm thinking 'guys where do you get this from?"

Gary Neville: Relief For David Moyes As He Gets Big Win Under Belt

Manchester United's 1-0 over Liverpool in the Capital One Cup has taken the pressure off David Moyes, says Gary Neville.

After a miserable 4-1 defeat in the Manchester derby against City on Sunday, there was relief for Moyes as Javier Hernandez scored an early second-half goal to hand United a place in the fourth round at the expense of their fierce rivals.

It would be almost unthinkable for United fans if the team had lost to both of their biggest rivals within four days and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville believes this "big game" win will ease the pressure on the new manager.

He told Sky Sports: "There's always a huge inquest, especially after a defeat like that in the derby and the pressure does build.

"Relief is the word to describe for Moyes, he was happy at the end. You could see there was a sparkle in his eyes that he's got a big win under his belt.

"It was tough there, it was a hard-fought victory that. Liverpool didn't play badly in the game and had a few chances. United had to dig in there to get that result."

For Liverpool it was a second defeat in as many games and Neville believes the Reds lacked concentration and struggled to finish chances, despite having striker Luis Suarez return to the squad from a 10-game ban.

"Every time the ball came in the box for Liverpool, whether it was Kolo Toure, whether it was Jordan Henderson, whether it was Daniel Sturridge - they all looked like they couldn't sort their feet out. It all looked a bit awkward in the finishing and no one went out there and just finished it. Every time they had a chance they never got it away.

"It's a good result for United, the goal after half-time was important and there was a lack of concentration and focus from Liverpool. After that, Manchester United had something to hang on to, particularly at the end they grew into the game, Ryan Giggs and Phil Jones became difficult for Liverpool to play, but Liverpool wasted their chances."

Moyes made eight changes to the team that lost at the Etihad on Sunday including first starts of the season for Jonny Evans - who was named Man of the Match - and goalscorer Hernandez.

Former United defender Neville believes this squad rotation will now come into effect and benefit last season's Premier League champions.

"I think over the next couple of weeks with the next round of the Capital One Cup, the Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk and league games coming thick and fast, Moyes is going to have plenty of games to rotate his squad.

"Early on in the season when he had the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City - he wanted to play a consistent team to try and get through that difficult period.

"They've probably been a little bit below par with the results in the way in which they've gone, but now I think you'll see a lot more of the lads that played tonight intermingled with the team.

"I think you'll see them on Saturday, I don't think he'll go back to the Manchester City team, I think it will be a mixture of tonight's team and the team that played in the derby."

Capital One Cup 4th Round Draw: Man. United To Face Norwich City

The Capital One Cup fourth round features five all-Premier League clashes after the draw was made after Manchester United's 1-0 victory over Liverpool.

The most eye-catching fixture sees Arsenal pitted against London rivals Chelsea following their tense penalty shoot-out win over West Brom.

Manchester United face Norwich City at home while neighbours Manchester City will visit Newcastle United.

Tottenham will face Premier League new-boys Hull and Sunderland will take on Southampton at the Stadium of Light.

The other fixtures see Fulham visit Leicester, Stoke visit Birmingham City and West Ham visit Burnley.

Capital One Cup fourth-round draw in full:

Sunderland v Southampton

Leicester City v Fulham

Birmingham City v Stoke City

Manchester United v Norwich City

Burnley v West Ham United

Arsenal v Chelsea

Tottenham v Hull City

Newcastle United v Manchester City

Ties to be played on October 29 and 30

Match-winner Chicharito Praised

Javier Hernandez's predatory penalty-box instincts have been hailed by David Moyes and his team-mates after the Mexican's winner sent Liverpool spinning out of the Capital One Cup.

The striker made the most of a place in the manager's starting line-up by evading Jose Enrique to clinically convert Wayne Rooney's 46th-minute corner.

With his lively performance proving his undoubted worth, Chicharito was replaced in a tactical reshuffle with Michael Carrick coming on in the 74th minute but his strike proved decisive.

"I think sometimes in the box it’s your movement so you can lose big defenders and markers," explained Moyes. "I think Chicha did that and he's done great - his movement in the box is terrific.

"It’s real centre-forward movement, and that is what Chicharito has always done for all his goals. Every time people talk about him, that’s what people tell me. He’s great in the box and he gets his goals that way.

"A lot of credit must go to him for the way he finished it as well. It's okay losing him [Enrique] but the way he adjusted his body to get the finish away means it was a really good goal from our point of view at a good time in the game."

Team-mates Jonny Evans and Alex Büttner joined in the praise of the match-winning Mexican.

"Chicharito scored a brilliant goal," the outstanding Evans told MUTV. "His movement was unbelievable to get away from his marker. We know what he’s like day in, day out in training.

"You’ve always got to be aware of him, he only needs a yard to get a goal. It was a fantastic finish. He’s that type of lad – you saw that against Stoke a couple of years ago when he finished it with the back of his head. As long as he puts it in the goal, he’s happy. He just loves scoring goals."

Büttner, who like Hernandez and Evans, enjoyed his first competitive start under the new manager, was also impressed with the predatory poacher.

"Chicha's movements are always great," he enthused. "This one, he took one step back and then his touch was great. Everybody knows Chicha is dangerous in front of goal. It was a good finish."

Büttner Content With Outing

Alexander Büttner loved every minute of his first start of the season, in Wednesday night's Capital One Cup victory against Liverpool.

The Dutchman did well in the left-back position and relished the chance to play in front of such a vocal crowd.

"It's good for me to play these games," he said. "It's a good level and I can see where I'm at. It was a good game and I felt I did well."

Büttner admitted there was added determination in the home dressing room to win on Wednesday given the result in the weekend's Manchester derby.

Losing so comprehensively to Manchester City hurt everybody at the club and fuelled the Reds' desire to bounce back against Liverpool.

"It was an important win. Everbody wanted to win because of what we saw in the last game. We played as a team today and you could see on everybody's faces that we wanted to win.

"Everyone knows about what happened in the last game. The result was not good and we know we have to fight if we want to win games. Today, you saw people running in the last second of the game. We played well today."

Smalling Lauds United Resolve

Chris Smalling was pleased by United's response to derby day heartbreak, and was full of praise for the fans after the Reds' win over Liverpool in the Capital One Cup.

The defender played 90 minutes, helping United to a clean sheet on the way to a 1-0 victory, and believes that rediscovering winning form was the minimum requirement after Sunday's 4-1 loss to rivals Manchester City.

Smalling told Sky Sports: "It was a massive turnaround [from the weekend] and especially as there were a few players who have not played a lot of games. There was a lot of doubt after the weekend and we wanted to go out there and put on a performance.

"It was a big stage for us to go out there and the fans were really behind us – the noise they created was fantastic."

A second-half goal from Javier Hernandez settled the contest, sending United into the fourth round where Norwich City await, and Smalling believes the game was a good chance for the players to prove themselves to David Moyes.

"It felt like it was end-to-end for pretty much 90 minutes – there were a lot of chances created and it was a real cup tie. It was a chance for us to show him [Moyes] as he’s not seen too much of us, other than in training, to go out there on the big occasion and produce."

Evans Happy To Be Back

Jonny Evans said he was delighted to make his first appearance of the season and play his part in helping United reach the fourth round of the Capital One Cup.

The defender picked up Sky Sports' Man of the Match award after a towering display in the Reds’ 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

Evans says he was pleased to be back in action and even more satisfied with how the team dug in to get the result.

“That was my first start of the season and it was a tough game to come into because if you look at their forward line they’ve got a lot of pace and trickery,” he told MUTV. “You know when you’re playing against Sturridge and Suarez you’re never going to have an easy evening, but as a team we defended every set-piece well and that’s what you need in games like this.

“We dug in well. We didn’t play as well as we might have wanted to, but it can be like that against Liverpool, it’s more blood and thunder. Chicharito scored a brilliant goal – his movement was unbelievable to get away from his marker.

“This is a competition that we take seriously,” he added. “Early in my career here it was the first trophy that I won and it’s one we’d be proud to win again.”

Evans says there was never any doubt the players wouldn't react after Sunday’s disappointing derby defeat.

“We had no complaints really after the game at the weekend – everyone was honest in their assessment that we didn’t apply ourselves the way we should. Obviously it was hurtful for the fans, the manager and the players and you have to move on quickly from it,” insisted the defender.

“The manager made quite a few changes but that’s the beauty of having a big squad. He can rotate like he did tonight and the lads who came in played well.”

Cleverley Out With Injury

Phil Jones was presented with an opportunity to shine in midfield against Liverpool because of an injury to Tom Cleverley.

David Moyes revealed after the 1-0 Capital One Cup triumph that Cleverley was in his plans to play alongside Ryan Giggs in the engine room after impressing when coming on during the derby-day defeat to Manchester City.

However, Cleverley's absence allowed Jones to display his versatility with a typically all-action performance containing some crunching tackles.

"We lost Cleverley with an injury in training and it left me a little bit short of midfield players," said Moyes. "Michael Carrick has played [a lot] and Marouane Fellaini was cup-tied so we were short of bodies.

"I wasn’t sure if I wanted to play Phil in midfield but I felt he played very well. He broke the game up for us at the right time and we tried to get him in the middle of the pitch as much as we could."

Progress Pleases Boss

David Moyes was delighted with United's response to the defeat at Manchester City as Liverpool were overcome in the third round of the Capital One Cup.

The Reds set up a home date with Norwich City next month with a 1-0 victory over the Merseysiders to avenge the loss by the same scoreline at Anfield earlier in the campaign.

It was particularly pleasing that some of the players who have not had too much chance to impress during the early weeks of the season were able to contribute to the victory that was secured by Javier Hernandez's 46th-minute winner.

"It was a big game for us," admitted Moyes. "We lost at Anfield a few weeks ago and at the Etihad last week, so we wanted to put that right. Every game everyone says about me, it's the first at something or a monkey off my back or something else. It's going to be the way. I thought it was a really good game - an exciting game of football between the two teams.

"If you look at the first game [between us] and this game, they were both won by set-pieces and there was not an awful lot in the games. Obviously I made a lot of changes tonight as well and made sure we used the squad and it was good to see some of them get some playing time.

"It was certainly not a risk with the players I have got at Manchester United. All are international players and all of them are first-team players. There is no first team and Reserves - everyone can play in the team. Some of the performances were exceptional tonight, they really were, and they had to be.

"I thought it was a brilliant atmosphere at Old Trafford tonight. I've come to a lot of games here before but tonight was a brilliant atmosphere. It was a great cup tie and the supporters have done great. I'm just pleased to get the game won."

Clearly, the derby defeat stung the manager and his staff but he is convinced that the Reds can embark on a winning run, starting with Saturday's home encounter with West Brom.

"It's not frustrating," he said of the start. "I'm certain I'll fix it and turn it around. No doubt about that.

"I think it was important that we showed the whole club were hurt by the game on Sunday. We didn't perform to our levels but the players have done a great job to get us a big result and I'm really pleased with it.

"It (the start) was really tough. Nothing has changed. I said that. Now we've got games we've got to show we are capable of winning. We've got to do that in the next month or so. We know we've got to improve. I'm getting to know them and they're a really good team that won the Premier League last year but we need to make sure we are looking to improve as well."

The Match: Reds Respond

Here’s our analysis of the Capital One Cup win over the Merseysiders...

The match Forget about talk of how much the League Cup means to the top clubs – this was a rousing affair at a noisy Old Trafford with both sides going all out to reach the fourth round. After defeats at Anfield and the Etihad, painfully so on Sunday, there may have been pressure on United but the response was emphatic. After a tight first half, Javier Hernandez struck from Wayne Rooney's corner seconds after the restart and both sides hit the woodwork, while David De Gea and Simon Mignolet made stunning saves.

Goals Just the one but how sweet that Chicharito, so often the scourge of the two Merseyside clubs, should get it. This was his chance to shine after being patient and he took it, losing Jose Enrique to flick out a leg and convert Rooney's corner.

Subplot Luis Suarez's return from a lengthy absence and a summer of headlines about his future received inevitable focus but, for United, this was all about bouncing back from Sunday's derby disaster. Rooney was handed the captaincy ahead of Ryan Giggs, which surprised some supporters, and it's worth remembering Liverpool were determined to go far in this competition because they are not in Europe.

Star men There were fine performances in red shirts throughout the team but centre-backs Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans were immense. Rooney continued his fine form with another accomplished display and special mention must go to De Gea for a couple of top-class saves.

Opposition Liverpool may have lost at home to Southampton at the weekend but they have started the season well and passed the ball around with confidence; Steven Gerrard remains the hub of much of their approach work. Enrique performed well at left-back in the first half but crucially lost Chicharito, while Suarez clearly adds a threat in attack.

Move of the match Giggs made one marvellous interception to frustrate Daniel Sturridge and sparked a move that led to Hernandez and Nani feeding Rooney. The striker clipped a first-time pass to Nani but his cross was too close to Mignolet.

In the stands Any cup tie between the two clubs, with an increased allocation for the away fans, virtually guarantees a top-notch atmosphere and this occasion was no exception. The travelling supporters' ribbing of David Moyes in the first half was followed by vociferous backing from the Old Trafford faithful for the new boss. 'We're on the march with Moyes' army', they sang, and they were right – marching into the fourth round of the competition.

Capital One Cup 3rd Round: Man. United 1 Liverpool 0

Javier Hernandez settled a cracking Capital One Cup tie with a winner at the start of the second half as everybody at Old Trafford showed how the champions respond to adversity.

The first half was a lively, evenly-contested affair with the hosts unable to really trouble Simon Mignolet as most of the shots on goal were deflected by the eager Merseysiders. Indeed, Brendan Rodgers' side carved out the clearer opportunities in the opening 45 minutes.

Daniel Sturridge fired a couple of attempts wide and David De Gea was out bravely to deny Luis Suarez on his reappearance from a 10-game ban. However, United started the second half in inspired form and, after Nani immediately won a corner, Hernandez gave Jose Enrique the slip to expertly touch in skipper Wayne Rooney's set-piece.

Jordan Henderson spurned a real chance but most of the pressure was now coming from the Reds with Nani twice firing over and Shinji Kagawa spinning Lucas and skimming the bar with a thumping drive from outside the area. Back came Liverpool with Suarez brushing the side netting and hitting the bar with a free-kick, either side of a Victor Moses diving header bringing the very best out of De Gea.

Rooney twice extended Mignolet with fine efforts as the game continued to go from end to end and De Gea had to fish away a mis-hit cross by Henderson at his near post, before Kolo Toure could not capitalise after Suarez got away with a shove on Jonny Evans. The ground was a cauldron of noise at the death to celebrate revenge for the league defeat at Anfield.

Smalling: We Must Hit Back

Chris Smalling wants Manchester United to produce a rapid reponse this evening, following one of his “biggest disappointments” in football.

The Reds defender played the full 90 minutes of Sunday’s 4-1 defeat in the Manchester derby, a gruelling fixture at the best of times. But while a longer pause might have been welcomed on a physical level, Smalling insists the gap to this evening’s clash with Liverpool has been mercifully short from a psychological point of view.

“I think it’s good there’s a big game coming up against Liverpool so we can try to hit back. “We normally reply with a good result,” Smalling told ManUtd.com. “Sunday’s match was a big disappointment, probably one of the biggest disappointments I have felt and I think that a lot of the players were hurt by that performance.”

United’s other league defeat this season was ironically against tonight’s opponents but on that occasion, the champions had to wait for almost a fortnight before returning to action with a victory over Crystal Palace.

“We bounced back from that [losing 0-1 at Anfield] and, although this was an even bigger disappointment, we’ve got a chance to play a couple of games quickly and that’s what we all need. We must do our talking on the pitch, not just say it won’t happen again. It’s a case of showing the fans what we’re all about.”

Jesse Lingard: Birmingham Boss Lee Clark Hoping For Longer Loan

Birmingham City manager Lee Clark is hoping he can keep Manchester United loanee Jesse Lingard at St Andrew's for "as long as possible".

Lingard, who initially joined the Blues on a one-month loan, made a dream debut in front of his new home crowd on Saturday, scoring all four goals in their 4-1 victory over Sheffield Wednesday.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder completed his hat-trick on the half-hour mark before netting a fourth six minutes into the second period as he left the Owls defence in disarray.

Following the exceptional start, Clark is eager to extend the deal so that Lingard can continue to play a pivotal role as the Midlands-based side look to climb from 18th in the Championship standings.

"What we have got to try and do is continue to win games and for Jesse to enjoy his football to make the stay longer," Clark told the Birmingham Mail.

"That's what we aim to do because, you know, we certainly don't want him here just for the short term. We want him here for as long as possible.

"The month will be up quite quickly. Manchester United need to see that he is developing as a player and is enjoying the environment where he is playing."

Clark did also confirm that he has been in contact with United manager David Moyes regarding Lingard's opening display.

"I sent a text to David Moyes after the game Saturday," he added. "I see by the television footage that he was at the Hawthorns.

"He just replied saying he was delighted for the lad."

Perez: United Made Bale Bid

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has claimed that Manchester United made a bid for Gareth Bale before the Welshman moved to Madrid for a world-record fee.

The 24-year-old left Tottenham earlier this month for £86m and scored on his Real debut against Villarreal 10 days ago.

Bale was forced to miss his home debut against Getafe on Sunday, pulling out of the starting XI after injuring his thigh in the pre-match warm-up. He has been passed fit to face Atletico Madrid live on Sky Sports this weekend.

Perez told SER radio that he believed he had secured a bargain on the conclusion of the record-breaking deal.

He said: "Bale has come cheaply.

"Signing the best players out there is Madrid's philosophy and Bale was the best available player on the market this summer. We had been following him for two years.

"Tottenham did not want to sell. We learned that Manchester United had made an offer and we made one ourselves.

"Since childhood he had had the dream of playing for Real Madrid and he asked us to make it possible for him to come."

United boss David Moyes was asked about the story of his interest in Bale at his Tuesday press conference, but said only: "If I was I wouldn't tell you. We don't talk about it.

"We only talk about the players we think there is a reason to talk about and I wouldn't comment on that."

Capello Makes De Rossi Claim

Fabio Capello claims Manchester United boss David Moyes asked him about Roma and Italy star Daniele De Rossi.

United were linked with a move for De Rossi during the summer transfer window as Moyes looked to bolster his midfield options.

United were reported to have had a bid for De Rossi turned down by Roma and Capello claims Moyes did seek his expert opinion on his fellow Italian having worked with him during his time in charge with the Giallorossi.

The former England manager also revealed that if he was De Rossi he would have pushed for a move to Old Trafford.

"A few months ago David Moyes asked me for my opinion about De Rossi and my opinion could only be positive," Capello told Fox Sports.

"If I were De Rossi, I would have gone to Manchester United.

"I would have wanted to go to a club where the ambition is very high."

Carry United's History

Fans who apply for the official Manchester United Credit Card from MBNA now have a choice of four designs, each one representing a significant chapter in the champions' illustrious history.

Representative 16.9% APR variable

The four designs are as follows:

Ryan Giggs 1999

The 1999 Treble dream looked to be falling apart in the FA Cup semi-final replay when United, already reduced to ten men by Roy Keane’s red card, conceded an injury-time penalty. But when Peter Schmeichel beat away Dennis Bergkamp’s spot-kick to keep his team in the competition, the tide turned. The crowning glory was, of course, Giggs bursting forward on the break, floating past several challenges and crashing the ball into the roof of the net. The celebration photo featured on the Manchester United Credit Card will remind every fan of the ecstasy from that April evening.

Legends

Manchester United has a long tradition of turning talented players into world-class stars, and few embody this better than the six Reds featured on the Legends card. Their skill and dedication across the ages has helped to keep United at the top – and their service to the Reds even continues today in their globe-trotting roles as club ambassadors.

Champions 2013

The new vibrant red card features United’s Champions 20/13 celebratory logo, something that has already come to symbolise the club’s latest, epic achievement. The agony of the last-minute title loss in the previous campaign, Sir Alex’s final season, chasing the landmark of 20 league titles – these factors were all in the mix for one the most momentous feats in Old Trafford history.

The Trinity

Few players have ever clicked together as brilliantly as the trio featured on this card design – George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton. These footballing greats were at the forefront as the Reds emerged from the darkness of the 1958 Munich air disaster to win the European Cup just a decade later. Fans of a certain age who witnessed Charlton’s charges through the centre, Best’s dazzling runs and Law’s clinical finishing in the flesh are surely envied for that by a younger generation.

For more information on the Manchester United Credit Card and to apply, please visit: https://apply.mbna.co.uk/UKNeoCCapp/entry?sc=1UASMUFIGS001E4&mc=UAGMUF002PB

Promotional rates will no longer apply from the beginning of any statement period during which you have breached your terms and conditions, for example if you haven't paid on time or have gone over your credit limit. You cannot transfer balances between MBNA accounts.

The Manchester United Credit Card is issued by MBNA Limited. Registered Office: Stansfield House, Chester Business Park, Chester CH4 9QQ. Registered in England number 2783251. MBNA Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, Register Number: 204487 for the provision of payment services, and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for general insurance business. MBNA's consumer credit activities are licensed by the Office of Fair Trading.

Manchester United Football Club Limited is acting as a credit intermediary. Registered Office: Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0RA. Registered in England and Wales (registered no. 95489). Manchester United Football Club Ltd does not act independently and only offers credit cards provided by MBNA Limited.

Credit is available, subject to status, only to UK residents aged 18 or over. Calls may be monitored and/or recorded for quality and training purposes and for compliance with regulations.

Source: Manutd.com

Giggs Fine With 40

Ryan Giggs is unfazed about reaching 40 in a couple of months' time as he is proud of his longevity at the top level of the game.

The United legend made his debut before the dawn of the Barclays Premier League and has already made some telling contributions in the opening matches of the season, including an assist for Robin van Persie's opening strike at Swansea City.

In an exclusive interview with United Review, the official matchday programme, Giggs hinted that he fears his team-mates will make a fuss over his landmark birthday.

“Apparently 40 is the new 30, so I’m looking forward to it," he joked. "I know it’s quite daunting for some people but you just have to embrace it, not worry too much about it and just enjoy yourself.

"I’ve never really put too much stock in my age – to me, it’s more about how you feel and I feel pretty good at the moment. That said, I might try to keep my birthday a secret from all the lads when it comes round on 29 November. That might prove tough, though!"

Despite looking as fit as he has ever done, Giggs concedes that he is unlikely to be able to play three times in a week this term.

"What’s changed most over the years is the time it takes for me to recover after a game," he admitted. "Instead of having a day’s light training after a match, I might have two recovery days now. And playing Saturday-Wednesday-Saturday just doesn’t tend to happen anymore.

"I definitely feel the effects of playing football these days. Sometimes I’ll see other players who I played alongside – like Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes or Phil Neville – and they have retired already, even though they’re younger than me. I suppose it’s quite funny to think I’m older than them and I’m still going."

The former Wales international will hope to be involved in the Capital One Cup tie against Liverpool on Wednesday night after being rested of late - he provided the pass for Brian McClair in the final of the competition way back in 1992.

Januzaj Seeks Chance To Shine

Adnan Januzaj has been given a taste of life in Manchester United’s first-team and he is determined to make the most of any other opportunities that come his way.

David Moyes handed the 18-year-old attacking midfielder his United debut at Wembley as a substitute in the Community Shield win over Wigan Athletic, then earlier this month he emerged from the bench to earn his first outing in the Barclays Premier League against Crystal Palace.

It was the latter display that really caught the eye and announced Januzaj’s burgeoning ability to play at the top level; an exciting cameo on the left wing that garnered plenty of praise, not least from the United manager.

The Reds are in action this week in the Capital One Cup against Liverpool, and while the stature of that fixture may mean that the usual blooding of youth is more tentatively managed, Januzaj is relishing the prospect of any available chance to impress his boss.

“I’m really enjoying myself,” Adnan explains to United Review, the official matchday programme. “I played quite a few games in the Reserves last season and I thought I did well, and from there I had the chance to go on tour in the summer. It was a good opportunity for me to show what I could do for the team.

“That was a great experience for me and ever since then I’ve been working hard. Now the manager has given me my chance in the first-team at Wembley and against Crystal Palace.

“That was my first Premier League game for United and my first at Old Trafford, so it felt very special. I was in front of another big crowd and I was shocked to get about 25 minutes. When I got the call to say I was coming on, I was surprised. But I went on and tried to play my game.”

Having passed two big landmarks in his career – his debut and league bow – that hasn't nearly sated Januzaj’s appetite or ambition. That leads to the natural question: what next in his fledgling career?

“First, I’d like to stay in the squad,” he says. “I want to play as many games as I can and become the best player I can possibly be. But I know that I need to keep working hard every day to achieve that.”

RVP To Miss Liverpool Game

David Moyes has all-but ruled Robin van Persie out of United's Capital One Cup tie with Liverpool on Wednesday.

The Reds striker suffered a groin injury at the Aon Training Complex last week and subsequently missed Sunday's Manchester derby defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

While it is only a mild strain, the boss does not believe Van Persie is ready to return - although he is optimistic about fielding the Dutchman against West Brom on Saturday.

“I don't think Robin van Persie will play on Wednesday, but he has an outside chance for Saturday,” Moyes told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday.

Expanding on his plans for Liverpool, the boss also discussed the prospect of rotating his squad for the visit of Liverpool: “I think my idea was always to focus on every competition. It's always been the way here to win. In many ways the Capital One Cup has been a route to give as many young players an opportunity as we can.

“I think the draw sometimes in the Capital One Cup is the reason sometimes you can do that. Obviously this is a really big tie that has come out of the hat first.”

Moyes: Nobody Said It'd Be Easy

Sunday's derby defeat against Manchester City was a setback for David Moyes but he is insistent that it will not deter him from the long-term project of succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson and maintaining United's at the top of the game.

All eyes will be on the Reds boss's team on Wednesday in the Capital One Cup against Liverpool - and also when United return to league duty on Saturday against West Bromwich Albion - to see how his players react to the disappointing 4-1 loss to neighbours and rivals City at the weekend.

There is an acceptance on Moyes' part, however, that the club's transition from a manager who reigned for a quarter of a century to his own tenure and style of management will take time. Defeat to City hasn't changed his ambition to succeed in that task.

"It is a club on its own," says Moyes when asked whether he could have prepared himself for the unique nature of the job he has undertaken. "It's a fantastic place to work with great players. You try to prepare but you are never quite sure what you are going to get. But I have not been disappointed with what I have seen here that is for sure.

"I have really enjoyed the work. It has been a difficult period but I think we have done OK. With the exception of the last game I have been pretty pleased with how we have played."

Pressure and intense analysis of performances and results comes with the territory, as Moyes readily admitted in an interview with PA Sport and local radio on Tuesday. "If there is a reaction people should be expecting it. There were always going to be days like this and there might well be more days like this. I hope not, but there will be because that is football. Football does that to you.

"If people thought this was going to be easy and smooth after Sir Alex, I don't think that was ever going to be the case. It was always going to be tough following such a great manager with a great team. I think people with real football knowledge will know there are probably some changes to be made. It is not going to be made in one fell swoop. It is going to be done in time. That is why the Manchester United board realised the job that needed to be done needed to be a long-term one, not a short-term one.

"It is great working here with the players. They are a great group of players. But outside we have to make sure we do well enough to make sure other people think the work we are doing here is the right stuff."

Another opportunity to do that presents itself this week as attentions quickly turn to another of United's great rivals - Liverpool - in the Capital One Cup. "It is a big game for this club," adds the Reds boss. "It is a big game for Liverpool as well. It is the third round of the cup and it's a big draw. I am looking forward to getting back. It is the one thing that happens; you can have bad results but the next game isn't too far away here."

Moyes Won't Dwell On Derby

David Moyes says Manchester United won't dwell on the derby defeat to City with the Capital One Cup tie against Liverpool fast approaching.

Although conceding the manner of the loss was a shock, the boss is already switching his focus to the second meeting of the season with the Merseysiders as the Reds aim to avenge the 1-0 beating at Anfield in the Barclays Premier League.

"Well, it's gone now isn't it?" said Moyes of Sunday's 4-1 reverse at the Etihad Stadium. "I can't do anything about it so we move on and get ready for the next game.

"Yeah, it did [shock me]. But when you're a football manager for the length of time I have been, you are always going to have shocks. I've had lots and I have got no doubt there will be more in the future. That's the way football is.

"To get back on and play again is the best way to do it. You can't dwell too much on it. We're looking forward to getting the next game started and hopefully trying to win. I'm still getting to know all the players here and I have got a chance to get to know a few more of them this week and we'll see what they can do."

The fact that Liverpool come to Old Trafford provides added spice to the third-round encounter, particularly with the visitors' star striker Luis Suarez poised to make his comeback from a lengthy suspension.

"It's always a big game when you play any cup tie," he stated. "When you play Liverpool at Manchester United, it's a big rivalry. You could be right, t could take on a bigger significance than maybe people would expect. At the end of the day, it's another game and you take each game as it comes.

"It's an important game for us. We want to try and do well in all the cup competitions and that is what we will try to do.

"It [Suarez's return] means that Liverpool have got a really good player. So, does it change the complexion [of the game]? I don't know. I'm not looking at Liverpool too much but the qualities of Luis Suarez are very good."

Macheda Not Giving Up Manchester United Career

Federico Macheda insists he has not given up on making the grade at Manchester United and that he has nothing to prove on loan at Doncaster.

Macheda has failed to establish himself at Old Trafford after bursting onto the scene at the back end of the 2008/09 season with crucial goals against Aston Villa and Sunderland.

The Italian has not featured in the United side since last December and has been farmed out on loan to Sampdoria, QPR, Stuttgart in the last 18 months before linking up with Doncaster earlier this month.

The 22-year-old marked his full debut for Doncaster with two goals in the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest and he admits Paul Dickov played a big part in his decision to move to the Keepmoat Stadium.

"I'm not giving up on anything. I'm here to show everyone what I can do and who I am," Macheda told the Daily Star.

"I've got nothing to prove - except to myself. I want to enjoy myself playing football, then we will see in the future what happens."

Macheda added: The manager has been chasing me for a long time. I came here because of him and I wanted to thank him.

"It's thanks to him I have my confidence back. Hopefully I can stay until January."

Carrick Answers Fans' Questions

Michael Carrick recently took time out to answer questions posted by Manchester United fans via the club's official Twitter account, @ManUtd.

Predictably, the topics discussed were extremely varied and prompted the midfield maestro to touch on all manner of themes. Here's a transcript of his live Q&A...

What has been your proudest moment as a footballer so far? And furthermore in your life?
Winning my first trophy and winning the Champions League was great, as was my England debut. Having two kids is also special.

If you had to take three things to a deserted island, what would you take and why?
A pillow, a bag of sweets and a photo of my family! If I could take my family with me then I obviously would. Otherwise I would take a photo of them.

If you could play one match from your United career again, which would it be?
The Champions League final in Moscow. Everything about it was great – the weather, how late we kicked off, the feeling at the end… I almost cried!

In one word, describe playing alongside Paul Scholes for so many years…
A pleasure, an absolute pleasure (I know that’s not one word!).

What is your favourite #mufc chant?
Apart from my own? Haha! The one that sticks out is the one from the first year I was here… “Mourinho, are you listening?'

How hard is it to believe it’s not Scholes?
Ha ha, it’s pretty easy! It’s a good song. I always like to hear it and I take it as a complement. There’s a bit of irony in there.

Which is your favourite away stadium in England?
I enjoy playing at St James’ Park because I’m from Newcastle. Highbury was nice, too, when I played against Arsenal but I also like its replacement, the Emirates.

Do you think you can prolong your career like Giggsy and play until you’re 40?
Forty’s tough! I don’t know if I can get that far. It’s extreme what he’s done. You can only take it year by year.

What do you think is your biggest strength?
I think my strength is I’m calm. I don’t get too emotional. In terms of improving, I’m always looking to learn. You’re never done.

RVP Injury Not Serious

Robin van Persie missed the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday with a groin injury, but Reds boss David Moyes has confirmed that the Dutchman is not expected to be out for long.

A decision was left until the last possible moment to give van Persie every chance of making Sunday's derby, but United now expect the 30-year-old striker to return in midweek in the Capital One Cup against Liverpool or next weekend against West Brom in the Barclays Premier League.

Moyes confirmed: "We thought Robin would be okay. We gave him every chance. It's nothing serious. He could be involved on Wednesday [against Liverpool] or next weekend [against West Brom]."

After the game, the United manager revealed more about the injury: "I don’t think it’s that bad, we thought he was going to make it. He just felt something in his groin.

"He did a bit of training in the last couple of days, but he just felt it when he did any sharp movements and he didn’t want to aggravate it, so we took the decision [to not play him today]."

Wayne: We Must Improve

Wayne Rooney acknowledges that his United team-mates “must improve” in light of Sunday's disappointing Manchester derby defeat at the Etihad Stadium.

The Reds were outplayed for the first hour and ultimately beaten by goals scored at crucial times after Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure gave City a commanding half-time lead, before further conversions from Aguero and Samir Nasri all-but sealed the win within five minutes of the restart.

Some pride was salvaged via Rooney's sublime free-kick in the 86th minute, a finish that capped a late improvement for United. But as he told MUTV, it was all a little too late. "It's not nice to lose to City by four goals to one. To lose by any score is bad, so we're all really disappointed."

"The way we conceded the goals, one just before half-time and two straight after, is not good enough. We know we have to improve on that, to stop giving these sloppy goals away and capitalise on some of our good play, which I thought there was bits of... it just came too late in the game.

"It was a blow (City's second) but we still thought we could get back in the game. We've been two down many times before and we came out at half-time ready to get the first goal and that would have been game on. The way in which we conceded two goals so quickly killed the game.

"We knew at 4-0 that we obviously weren't getting back into the game but we had to keep fighting and pressing, trying to make a game of it to show the fans, and ourselves, the pride we have as footballers as it's never nice to lose."

"I thought during the last twenty minutes we played some good stuff. Had we done that earlier there might have been a different outcome, but it was too little too late."

Although his goal provided some brief personal satisfaction, Rooney was more interested in the bigger picture and a disappointing result. Thankfully, as he explained, attention now turns to Wednesday's Capital One Cup clash with Liverpool, another huge occasion."

"It's nice to score but it means nothing," Wayne said. "The points were the most important thing today and we've come away with none. However, we've got a big game against Liverpool on Wednesday so we'll try and forget about today and move on in that game.

"We've all grown up - whether in Manchester, Liverpool or elsewhere in the world - with local football derbies and it's not nice when you lose one. I've been there myself as a fan and as a player it's never a nice moment. But thankfully we've got the game against Liverpool coming up Wednesday and it's something we are looking forward to now in the hope that we can get the victory to put this defeat to the back of our minds."

Vidic: Loss Was 'Horrible'

Nemanja Vidic described the feeling of losing Sunday’s Manchester derby 4-1 as “horrible”, but the Reds skipper says that United must come back from this defeat.

United conceded goals just before and just after half-time which killed the game for the Reds.

“To lose a derby game is horrible,” Vidic told Sky Sports. “It's more difficult when you lose the game after this kind of performance.

“We were 4-0 down and it was really tough. We were never close to winning the game or even getting a draw. It's disappointing but we have to come back. We're down now but from tomorrow we'll try to be positive and win the next game and move on."

City were the stronger starters in the match and took a foothold in the contest when Sergio Aguero gave the home side a 16th minute lead. United didn’t dictate play until the scoreline stretched beyond the Reds’ reach.

“From the first minute they tried to be aggressive,” added Vidic. “I'd say they had more possession in the first 20 minutes and we lost a goal. We didn't get in the game from the first minute. Obviously this is what you have to learn and now, the next game, we try to win. That’s the most important thing and we can't afford to look back.”

Moyes: Reds Weren't Strong Enough

David Moyes pulled no punches in his assessment of United's comprehensive derby defeat to Manchester City, but insists his side will quickly move on and improve after a troubling afternoon.

City's thoroughly deserved 4-1 victory was built on a quick start and a dominant display in midfield, and Moyes admitted his side weren't strong enough to match the Blues.

"We didn't play well," the manager told Sky Sports. "They were better and started much stronger, much quicker than us. I thought Manchester City were very good. We weren't, I've got to say, but Manchester City started the game really well.

"They got a grip of the game very early on. We didn't. We never really got to grips with their midfield players in the early part of the game, and because of that they started to get domination. We had to be stronger. We weren't.

"But great credit to the lads that they kept going, and kept working away and got a goal back. We'll get better. It's a long season to go, so we'll put this behind us and move on."

The Reds are back in action on Wednesday evening for the Capital One Cup clash with Liverpool at Old Trafford, and Moyes is intent on a quick return to winning ways after a painful afternoon at Etihad Stadium.

"Whether it's a derby or somebody else, you don't want to lose," said the Scot, "but it does make it worse when you want to do so well for your supporters. I thought our supporters were great today, under the circumstances. Whatever manager loses a game, you get on and try to win the next game. You just play the next game and see how you go. We'll do everything we can to win the next one."

The Match: Reds Beaten

Here’s our in-depth take on the champions’ chastening Manchester derby defeat...

The match One to forget. Quickly. Sergio Aguero’s opening goal was a marvellous finish which lifted the home side, but it was Yaya Toure's close range conversion on the stroke of half-time which did for United. A devastating opening to the second period yielded close-range volleys for the unmarked Aguero and Samir Nasri, before United were stung into life. Wayne Rooney fired over from close range, Marouane Fellaini brought a fine save from Joe Hart and Patrice Evra headed against the post, before Rooney finally beat Hart with a superb late free-kick. Sadly, it was too little, too late.

Goals It will be lost amid a chastening afternoon, but Rooney’s 25-yard free-kick compares favourably with any of his previous set-pieces for the club.

Subplot The absence of the injured Robin van Persie provided a glimpse of life without United’s top scorer, but that's not to provide an excuse as City’s display was clinical.

Star men There was a marked improvement in United’s all-round display after conceding the fourth goal, but Wayne Rooney gave a sustained display of the battling spirit required by the fixture, and his fine free-kick – which made him the highest goalscorer in Manchester derby history – perhaps salvaged the merest sliver of consolation from the afternoon.

Opposition City were impressive from the off, and used Aguero’s opening goal as a launchpad for a dominant display brimming with confidence and desire. United were unable to match the hosts’ sharpness and desire until it was too late.

Move of the match Shortly after Nasri’s strike, a low cross from Chris Smalling was neatly dummied by Welbeck, only for Rooney to scoop his finish over the bar from 12 yards.

In the stands The home support were in understandably fine fettle all afternoon as their side ran riot in the Manchester sunshine. However, the travelling contingent were sparked into life by City’s fourth goal and belted out lasting renditions of ‘We’ll never die’.

Premier League: Man. City 4 Man. United 1

A powerful display from Manchester City condemned Manchester United to a 4-1 defeat in a chastening local derby for the Barclays Premier League champions.

Sergio Aguero’s superb opener put the hosts in the ascendancy after 16 minutes, and Yaya Toure’s close-range goal in first-half injury-time left the Reds - shorn of the injured Robin van Persie - struggling to retain a foothold in the game.

That perilous position was compounded by a disastrous opening to the second half, as City struck twice in five minutes, again with slack marking playing a part in United’s demise as Aguero and Samir Nasri were given time and space to beat the exposed De Gea.

Pride smarting and with City increasingly inclined to sit back on their advantage and look to strike on the counter-attack, United showed greater purpose thereafter and began creating chances.

However, City’s defence was as obdurate as its midfield and attacking counterparts were incisive, and the Reds' only consolation came when Wayne Rooney curled home a magnificent 87th-minute free-kick.

David Moyes’ side had been condemned to a second defeat of the season long before that point, though, and now must quickly switch their sights to Wednesday’s Capital One Cup clash with Liverpool.

Beyond that, next Saturday brings the league visit of West Bromwich Albion to Old Trafford, and a chance for the champions to emerge positively from a taxing start to the defence of their title.

RVP: Rooney Partnership Works

Robin van Persie is delighted to still have Wayne Rooney alongside him at Manchester United following a summer of uncertainty.

Rooney was said to have been pushing for a move away from Old Trafford during the recent transfer window - with Chelsea and Arsenal expressing an interest in his services.

United were, however, able to keep the England international on their books and have seen him open the 2013/14 campaign in fine form - taking his goal tally for the Red Devils onto 200.

Van Persie has also picked up where he left off last season - when he collected the Premier League Golden Boot - and the Dutchman sees his partnership with Rooney going from 'strength to strength'.

Ahead of a derby date with Manchester City on Sunday, he said: "I think everyone can see that Wayne and I want to play together - that we are trying to give the ball to each other.

"For example, the ball that just missed me in the second half against Bayer Leverkusen on - Tuesday night, when it went past me, came because he wanted to pass to me.

"He wasn't trying to score himself. And that works both ways. I really think if we can keep on growing, keep on passing to each other, we can both end up with a lot of goals this season.

"I am very pleased with my partnership with him - we love to play together, you know. I think we are similar players in the way that we are all-round - we can both drop back and go in behind.

"We both have a pass in us - which is what I love. I love to play with Wayne because for me he has it all.

"As long as we can combine that really well, as long as we work together and try to improve - which we are doing - I think we can go from strength to strength.

"The way I see it, we just want to score a lot together. And that applies to everyone - not only Wayne and me.

"Last year, I don't think our wingers scored enough. Hopefully, we can get more from them, which would be really helpful for everyone.

"So it doesn't only come from Wayne and me but we threaten on all sides. Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick need to add to that, too, from corners, free-kicks, whatever."

Gill: Rooney 'Was Never Leaving'

Former Manchester United chief executive David Gill has confirmed there was no chance the club would have sold Wayne Rooney to Chelsea in the summer.

Rooney was the Blues' primary transfer target in the close season and they had two bids for the 27-year-old turned down.

The striker has since become only the fourth United player to reach 200 goals for the club and although Rooney is yet to commit to an extension to a contract that finishes in 2015, a departure to another English club seems highly unlikely.

"We are not in the business of strengthening our key competitors in England," Gill, who is a United director after stepping down from UEFA's executive committee, told BBC radio.

"You have to see our response when Gabriel Heinze wanted to join Liverpool (in 2007).

"We went to a Premier League arbitration panel to show that we didn't commit to him moving within England for a certain sum of money.

"We wanted to keep (Rooney) in any event and not sell him overseas. You don't win football matches with money in the bank.

"You want players on the pitch. Wayne Rooney has been, and will continue to be I am sure, a great player for Manchester United."

It has been suggested that United may look to reduce Rooney's reported £250,000 a week contract when negotiations between the two parties begin, a proposal which would be unacceptable to the England frontman.

Gill is slightly detached from such proceedings now but he does feels talks are bound to start at some point.

"Yes, I am sure they will look at it," said Gill.

"We have an approach to dealing with players' contracts at Manchester United that has stood us in good stead for many years.

"I am sure (executive vice-chairman) Ed (Woodward), (manager) David (Moyes) and the owners will continue with that policy."