Manchester United Reserves Looking To Follow The Adnan Januzaj Path

Manchester United youngsters Andreas Pereira and Charni Ekangamene are hoping to follow in the footsteps of Adnan Januzaj and make David Moyes' starting line-up.

Belgian-born playmaker Januzaj has stolen the headlines at Old Trafford this season, with the 18-year-old making 13 appearances and scoring three goals in the Premier League.

Witnessing the rise of Januzaj has given compatriots Pereira and Ekangamene inspiration as they pursue their own first-team ambitions.

Pereira, who joined the Old Trafford youth system in 2012, was one of four Belgians to feature in the United reserves' title win last season, before earning the best player award in the Milk Cup.

Now, the 17-year-old is looking to cause selection headaches for first-team manager Moyes.

"I'm hoping to finish this season in the reserve squad, but you never know what happens," he told Het Laatste Nieuws.

"Next year I would like to join the first-team squad in pre-season. That's my objective. If I succeed in it, I'll be happy.

"2013 was a good year for me. I'm performing above expectations as I already got promoted to the Under 21 squad."

Attacking midfielder Pereira was quick to dismiss comparisons with Januzaj, claiming he is ready to forge his own route through the United ranks.

"Some already compare me to my countryman Adnan Januzaj," he added. "A compliment, but I'm not his successor. I'm making my own way."

Meanwhile, fellow reserve-team midfielder Ekangamene was handed an unexpected call from Moyes' assistant Phil Neville before Christmas, asking him to be prepared for United's trip to Villa Park.

"Two weeks ago I got a message that I had to be ready," he explained in Gazet van Antwerpen.

"They expected me in the players' hotel for the game against Aston Villa. Phil Neville called me and confirmed I was part of the squad.

"Finally, I wasn't on the bench, but it was still a positive experience."

Ekangamene admits it took some time to settle in to life in Manchester following his transfer from Royal Antwerp in 2010 but insists the addition of Januzaj brought comfort and familiarity.

"I had a difficult few months when I joined, but the transfer of Januzaj, a year later, did me well," he said. "We are friends.

"All the stars in the team know me. We eat together and make jokes.

"In the club they compare my playing style with that of Claude Makelele. I'm technically strong, but don't hesitate to kick a ball in the stands, if needed."

Andreas Pereira, Marnick Vermil, Charni Ekangamene and Adnan Januzaj: Belgian quartet impressing at Old Trafford

No Nani Talk For Juve's Conte

Juventus coach Antonio Conte has refused to be drawn on speculation linking the Serie A champions with Manchester United's Nani.

The Portuguese winger only signed a new five-year contract with the Red Devils in September but speculation emerged at the weekend linking him to Juventus.

The 27-year-old has featured 15 times for the Premier League champions this term, with his last appearance coming in the 1-0 home loss to Newcastle on 7th December.

But Conte refused to be drawn on the speculation, preferring to leave transfer dealings to the club's hierarchy.

"Nani? I'm the coach. For these things there are (director Beppe) Marotta and (sporting director Fabio) Paratici," he said.

Young: Title Charge has Begun

Ashley Young believes Manchester United have shown they are ready to fight for their Premier League title in the New Year.

United's hopes of retaining their crown appeared slim after successive home defeats against Everton and Newcastle, but David Moyes' men have produced a string of wins in recent weeks.

A hard-earned 1-0 victory over Norwich on Saturday has moved United within striking distance of the top four and Young feels the players are showing the qualities needed for a title charge.

"It is more the character and the team spirit we have got, to bounce back from defeats and disappointing performances," he said.

"We show that resilience, that strength in depth in the squad, that team spirit - we have got all that off the field, so when you take that onto the field, you win games and we have shown that in the past few performances.

"I keep talking about the momentum we are building. As long as we keep playing the way we have, we will keep building that up.

"If you were to ask anybody around the club, no-one would have ever said we were out of the title race.

"We have to just keep winning games. Our momentum is building now and we have to keep playing as we have done to take those chances which will see us back up the table."

Manager David Moyes echoed Young's words and has urged United to maintain their form in the weeks ahead.

"We have to keep moving on and believing that we are going to catch the teams above us, we have to believe that we are going to go out and win the games," he said.

"We look more likely to score goals and it looks as if we are creating more. The players are getting the bit between their teeth again and I think they are generally doing much better."

Moyes Sets Welbeck Goal Mark

Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck has been challenged to rack up 20 goals by his manager David Moyes.

The England forward came off the bench at Norwich to net his fourth goal in five appearances as United recorded a fourth successive Premier League win to move within striking distance of the top four once again.

Wayne Rooney missed the Canaries trip as he rested a groin problem, but should return for the New Year's Day clash against Tottenham, while Robin van Persie is also set to step up his recovery from a thigh injury which has sidelined the Dutchman since mid-December.

Moyes sees no reason why Welbeck - who now has seven goals for United to add to his three for England - cannot push on to make his mark on the run-in.

"We have said to him we are trying to keep his finishing up. I think he can keep his efforts up, his levels up even better," said Moyes.

"I think Danny has responded, he is saying 'hey this is quite good I am beginning to score some goals and getting recognised for that as well'.

"He got one goal last year and now he is on seven for this season. It could be better, but you have got to say it is going in the right direction.

"With the second half of the season to go, he should be certainly looking to score 20 goals. We need him to do that because when you don't have Wayne and you don't have Robin, then you need people to step up to the mark.

"In quite a few of the games recently he has done that for us."

Javier Hernandez was started at the head of the United attack on Saturday, and Moyes feels his side need to have plenty of options.

"I don't think at Manchester United you have only two players to do the jobs. You have got to have more, like in these games you would never be able to cope when you pick up injuries," the Scot added.

"I see it more as a squad rather than any one. Chicharito is part of that, who is a great goalscorer too."

Despite United's upturn in fortunes which has seen them into the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup and the last 16 of the Champions League, Moyes is determined to keep everyone grounded.

"That is my style," Moyes insisted. "We are just trying to move along and we have nothing to shout about here at the moment."

Valencia Tackles Fans' Questions

What do you most enjoy about training every day? @hetget7
It has to be ‘boxes’ [piggy-in-the middle style exercise with two players trying to get the ball off the main group]. I love it. [Who’s the best at it?] Me, because I never end up in the middle – that’s why I mentioned it, because I’m the best!

How often do you practise crossing? @noppatjak
Every day. It’s something I spend a lot of time working on and most days I stay behind after training to do extra practice with David [De Gea] and a couple of other teammates. It’s something I really enjoy.

Who is the best player you have ever worked with? @dat_freshprince
I will say everyone at United! I could give you a lot from the national team but I’ll say two. Segundo Alejandro Castillo, the ex-Everton midfielder, and my great friend Christian Benitez, who sadly is no longer with us.

Who would win in a sprint – you or Usain Bolt? @IrvanAzmatyan_
[Laughs]. I don’t think anybody in the world could beat him. He’s bound to win!

What is your most memorable moment as a United player in your time at the club so far? @tjrzammit
I’d have to say both times we have won the league [in 2011 and 2013]. That’s one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. It felt fantastic when I had the medal put round my neck after both title wins. I hope I can experience that many more times in my career here.

This interview first appeared in the West Ham United edition of United Review.

Festive Form Delights Evra

Patrice Evra believes that Manchester United have a new-found hunger after picking up a second win in three days with victory over Norwich.

Having started slowly at Carrow Road, the Reds came to life after the break with Danny Welbeck's effort giving David Moyes' men a fourth consecutive league win.

Evra was delighted to see United's good run of form continue, but says his side shouldn't get carried away with recent results.

He told MUTV: “It’s a massive win. Norwich played very well and they should have scored a few goals in the first half, but I think the lads deserve plenty of credit. It’s never easy to play two games on the road like that, but the most important thing is the three points.

“I’m just looking at the present [moment in time]. The team is now playing better, we have that winning mentality and United spirit which was missing at the start of the season. I can see that our hunger has come back, so I’m confident, but I don’t want to talk about the title. I just want to talk about the next game, Tottenham at home [on Wednesday]. We need to make sure that we win, and that we keep the momentum going."

The defender was also full of praise for Welbeck after the game, insisting that his winning goal was vital in the absence of injured duo Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie.

“He made the difference," added the 32-year-old. "I’m so pleased for him, because he’s working very hard, and he has started to score a lot of goals. I hope it continues.

“The squad is strong, but it is not only about one player," he continued. "We were also without Wayne and Robin when we played against Stoke, and when they come back we’ll be even stronger, which is why I’m so happy. With them, we are the strongest team in the Premier League, so we have to keep winning - with or without them."

United begin 2014 by welcoming Tottenham to Old Trafford on New Year's Day as the busy festive period continues.

Asked about the hectic schedule, Evra joked: “I will rest when I retire, I’ve got plenty of time to do that. I think a lot of people would wish to be in my position; I’m lucky and it’s a privilege to play for Manchester United. To be able to play every game makes me so happy."

Moyes: Defence Is Key To Form

David Moyes believes defensive solidarity has underpinned United’s impressive form throughout the influential Christmas period.

The Reds have now won six consecutive matches in all competitions, a hugely promising run in which the Barclays Premier League champions have kept four clean sheets and conceded just three goals.

Moyes, a former central defender himself, is delighted with those statistics and was quick to praise his players when speaking to MUTV following Saturday’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Norwich City at Carrow Road.

“We needed the clean sheet and I thought we defended well. Up until the game at Hull we had been defending really well, we had only conceded one goal in the league game against West Ham. Then we went to Hull and gave two away in 10 minutes.

“But if you look at us over the last month or so, we have actually been quite solid defensively and it was good to see them [the defenders] do it again. I thought they defended brilliantly well in the first half and they got some great blocks in when it looked as though we were in trouble, so they did really well.”

On a broader note, Moyes has reiterated his view that his improving United side are still capable of winning the title this season. “We have to keep moving on and believing that we are going to catch the teams above us, we have to believe that we are going to go out and win the games.

“We look more likely to score goals and it looks as if we are creating more. The players are getting the bit between their teeth again and I think they are generally doing much better.”

Moyes Praises David De Gea

David Moyes says goalkeeper David De Gea is improving all the time and will be a big part of Manchester United's future.

The 23-year-old Spain shot-stopper has only kept four clean sheets in the Premier League so far this season as the champions have struggled to keep opponents at bay.

However, De Gea has also made several outstanding saves, particularly in recent weeks, and needed to be at his best to keep out James Chester in the closing moments of United's 3-2 Boxing Day win at Hull.

Moyes believes the former Atletico Madrid keeper, who endured a shaky start in Manchester, is among a clutch of United stars who will be around at Old Trafford for a long time to come.

The Red Devils boss said: "He is one of five or six young players in the team who are going to be part of the next five or six years and that means he can only get better.

"The defenders have always trusted him because they knew the potential for him to get better was there."

Moyes knows much of the focus is on his star names Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie but like Peter Schmeichel in the past, the role of the goalkeeper is crucial to United's success.

"Wayne and Robin score big goals and win games for us - but David has won us big points as well," Moyes added in The Sun.

"His save at Sunderland comes to mind and he did it again at Hull.

"He is also coming and taking crosses and being brave and we want him to do that.

"One of the hardest things to do is put a young goalkeeper in. He made a few mistakes but Sir Alex (Ferguson) stuck with him.

"He really trusted him and believed in him and we are seeing the fruits of that.

"He is now turning into a man and getting stronger and looking at the top of his game.

"He is getting used to the Premier League and understanding what he has to do, he is coming and catching and taking things, sometimes that is what you have to do, you have to be brave. He is punching well too."

Shinji Quizzed By Fans

Shinji Kagawa recently answered questions posted by followers of United's official English and Japanese Twitter pages...

What kind of music do you listen to in the build-up to games? @macho0711
I listen to Japanese pop music to relax and stay calm. Depending on my mood, I’ll listen to either high-tempo or slow music. Exile are my favourite group. Though they are big in Japan, they aren’t very well known elsewhere in the world, but I like them and they keep me in good spirits. Music is important to me.

Have you become a better player since joining United? @tomorroworld
Yes, you can’t help but improve here. There are lots of experienced players in this team; they have taught me a lot and every day I pick up new skills from them. Not many Japanese or even Asian players have benefitted from playing at such a big club, so I think I’m very fortunate to be in this position. It makes me happy and proud.

Who is your best friend at the club? @pradipmufc
Alex Büttner lives quite close to me and we joined the club at the same time; I’ve been pretty close to him ever since. Alex played with Japanese players at his last club [Vitesse Arnhem], so he knows and understands the language reasonably well. That allowed me to be even more comfortable with him.

If you weren’t a footballer, what would you be? @DarylG7
It’d have to be another sport, I think. I’ve played various sports since an early age and always enjoyed them, so maybe I could have been a professional in another discipline, though I’m not sure which one!

Who was your favourite player growing up and why? @EP2511
As a child I was a big fan of the J-League but didn’t idolise any particular players. There was no European football on TV at the time so I did not know much about the wider game. But when I became conscious about playing abroad, I started watching more matches from around the world. When I was at Dortmund, Andres Iniesta was my favourite player.

This interview first appeared in the Everton edition of United Review.

Groin Strain For Rooney

Wayne Rooney should be available for Manchester United's first match of 2014, despite missing Saturday's trip to Norwich City.

Reds manager David Moyes confirmed the in-form striker did not travel to Carrow Road due to a recurrence of a groin problem, but stated his belief that Rooney would back in his squad for Tottenham Hotspur's visit to Old Trafford on New Year's Day (Wednesday).

Speaking to MUTV after Saturday's 1-0 win at Carrow Road, the boss said: "I am hopeful and I think he will be fit for New Year's Day. I just need to wait and see.

"He has got the same injury that kept him out at Stoke. It is an adductor injury to his groin, it is not serious but ideally we could have given him two or three weeks to recover completely. But he has been so influential for the team and we want to get him back playing."

Rooney's sumptuous half-volley in the Boxing Day victory over Hull City was his 11th strike of the season so far in all competitions and notably his 150th goal in the Barclays Premier League for United.

Welbeck: We Have Momentum

Danny Welbeck believes Manchester United are gathering momentum in the title race and insists his team-mates are determined to build on Saturday’s important 1-0 win over Norwich City.

The Manchester-born striker sprang off the bench to score the winning goal at Carrow Road and seal another crucial victory for the Reds following the Boxing Day triumph over Hull, also maintaining the champions’ impressive run of form ahead of the New Year.

Speaking to MUTV after the final whistle, Welbeck was quick to praise a key result. “I think it was a very important win for us. Playing two games in three days is really difficult both physically and mentally so we’re pleased to get six points over the Christmas period.

“We have gathered momentum, but the most important thing is to look towards the next game because you can’t get carried away. The two wins are behind us and we just want to keep winning in the coming games.

“I think during the course of the season, you come across games which aren’t pretty, but you have to get a result," he added. "Getting the victory without putting in our best performance is a good sign for us."

Referencing his finish, Welbeck believes there was only ever going to be one outcome when through on goal: “There were a couple of ricochets and thankfully the ball fell for me. I knew that once I was one-on-one with the goalkeeper, I was going to score.”

Moyes Applauds Welbeck Impact

David Moyes hailed a “brilliant” Manchester United victory and praised Danny Welbeck after the Reds recorded a hard-fought 1-0 win over Norwich City at Carrow Road.

With the score goalless at half-time, the boss introduced Welbeck to the action and the England international made a fabulous impact, ultimately deciding the match by rounding Canaries goalkeeper John Ruddy to score the game’s winning goal in the 57th minute.

Speaking to MUTV after the match, Moyes was delighted with the win and his striker: “It's just a brilliant three points. We have had two away games in three days, they have both been hard and very close, but it's terrific that the players have come out with six points.

“We needed the squad. We have a big squad here and a good squad. If you are going to win games away from home then you are going to need them to do their job, and we are going to need them in the coming games as well.

“It was great to get the victory, although we didn’t play particularly well in the first half. In the first 10 minutes, I thought we did well but then we lost our way a little bit. I thought Danny Welbeck came on and made a massive difference for us. He gave us something slightly different.”

Asked if his decision to bring Welbeck on changed the game, Moyes was humble and keen to attribute all of the credit to the 23-year-old. He also acknowledged Norwich’s performance and the way they reacted to a disappointing Boxing Day defeat to Fulham.

“I have got to say it was all about Danny’s performance for me," insisted the manager. "I didn’t like the way we finished the first half, we gave away seven or eight corner kicks and we hadn’t got enough grip of the ball.

"The biggest thing that I noticed was how well Norwich had reacted to their result against Fulham. They put in a great performance for their manager. The crowd were right behind them too and I'm realising that a lot of teams raise their game when Manchester United come to town. It was a tough match for us.”

The Match: Digging Deep

After United's win at Norwich, ManUtd.com reviews the Carrow Road success in more detail...

The Match Lacking cohesion amid a considerable injury crisis, United were fortunate to reach the interval still on level terms. Norwich, despite a slow start, controlled the majority of the first period and would have led with calmer finishing from Wes Hoolahan. After the introduction of match-winner Danny Welbeck, however, the visitors' game developed the power and purpose it had been missing, and Norwich were firmly put in their place. While it was rarely pretty, winning at such an inhospitable venue without so many players - van Persie, Rooney, Jones, Valencia, Rafael, Nani and Fellaini were all unavailable - augurs well for the character within David Moyes' squad.

The Goal Having brought the hustle United had been missing, it was inevitable that Welbeck would make the difference as a result of his own industry. Having charged down Ryan Bennett's clearance, the striker raced onto the loose ball after it had rebounded off Chicharito, and he calmly circumnavigated John Ruddy before sliding a finish into the untended goal.

Star men The improvement in United's second half display stemmed largely from the introduction of Welbeck, who deserved his status as the match-winner after a 45-minute outing oozing pace and power. Up to that point, David De Gea had kept the Reds in contention as Norwich regularly created chances, while Chris Smalling provided an unyielding display at right-back to stifle the influence of Norwich winger Nathan Redmond.

Sub plots Welbeck's recent resurgence in front of goal suggests that his game is developing its one missing component. Last year's meagre return has long since been overhauled, and four goals in his last four Barclays Premier League outings have underlined the clinical streak he has developed.

Opposition Norwich's transition from defence to attack and back again occurred at a troubling pace for United in the first period, and the hosts were left to rue missed chances during their spell of control. After the Reds had forged ahead, Norwich's performance level dropped off and their passing became sloppy, allowing United to close out the victory without De Gea fielding a single serious effort.

Move of the match The signs of the improvement in United's play were evident shortly before Welbeck's winner, when a spell of neat passing from Shinji Kagawa, Tom Cleverley, Michael Carrick and Ashley Young exited a tight situation. The move eventually came to a head, however, when Sebastian Bassong blocked Kagawa's run into the area and escaped without censure.

In the stands Having made the ardous journey across to Norfolk, United's travelling support made the most of their afternoon with a typically boisterous display throughout the game. Norwich's supporters were behind their side for the most part, but became understandably tetchy as a second consecutive home defeat hoved into view.

Premier League: Norwich City 0 Man. United 1

A well-taken goal by substitute Danny Welbeck gave Manchester United an invaluable victory over Norwich City on a hard-fought afternoon at Carrow Road.

The injury-hit Reds were rarely at their best during a largely dour affair, but improved markedly on a poor first half display after the break, and were rarely troubled after Welbeck had put David Moyes' side into the lead shortly before the hour.

The manager's preparations were dealt a blow by the absence of Wayne Rooney, who remained in Manchester with a minor groin injury, while Antonio Valencia was also absent through suspension. While Michael Carrick's first start since early November provided a timely boost, United were disjointed for much of the first period.

The Reds' two best chances of the first half were separated by 40 minutes. Between those openings - a Shinji Kagawa cross-shot beaten away by John Ruddy and a tame near-post Chicharito effort - Norwich overcame a timid opening to steadily take control of the game. David De Gea needed to thwart Russell Martin, Gary Hooper and Sebastian Bassong, while Jonny Evans bravely blocked a Wes Hoolahan shot and Robert Snodgrass repeatedly chanced his arm from distance without success.

The Canaries had blunted United's attacking play by regrouping quickly in-between their own periods of dominance, but the Reds grasped control of the game with the half-time introduction of Welbeck. The substitute added much-needed pace and penetration to United's approach, and he quickly made a telling difference by charging down Ryan Bennett's clearance and racing onto the loose ball, via a Chicharito touch, before rounding Ruddy and sliding home a finish to settle the game in United's favour and ensure a six-game winning streak to end 2013.

Southampton Won't Sell Adam Lallana After Manchester United Link

Mauricio Pochettino insists Southampton are under no pressure to sell Adam Lallana after the midfielder was linked with a move to Manchester United.

Speculation in the Boxing Day papers claimed United manager David Moyes was considering a £15million January bid for Lallana.

The 25-year-old has been an impressive figure for Southampton this season and again caught the eye in Thursday's 3-0 victory away to Cardiff City.

He created the opening goal for Jay Rodriguez and his performance capped a memorable few days after he got married earlier this week.

Saints boss Pochettino is not worried about losing the England international and is confident Lallana is happy to stay at St Mary's.

"I think Adam and other players are going to stay with us," said Pochettino after the win at Cardiff.

"There is no pressure to sell them, Adam has said he is happy at Southampton and Southampton have no plans to sell him."

Rooney Ready For Norwich Test

Wayne Rooney believes Norwich City will offer a different threat to that posed by Hull City and insists his Manchester United team-mates are more than up for the challenge.

The Reds came from two goals down to record a dramatic 3-2 win at the KC Stadium on Boxing Day. Next on the festive fixture list is Saturday’s trip to Carrow Road and Rooney hopes to secure three more Premier League points.

“Hull play a different system here (at the KC Stadium) but we managed to get a hold of the game,” Wayne told MUTV. “Saturday’s match will be different to what we faced today and Norwich will be different as well.

“It’s always a good atmosphere at Carrow Road and I’m sure they’ll come out running and trying to get in our faces, but we have to show our quality and hopefully that will win us the game.”

48 hours after a match, Rooney would normally be resting for United’s next match. However, at this time of year, the recuperation pool is swapped for the pitch and while this isn’t ideal, he is excited for another big game.

“Two days after a game we are normally in the pool and in the gym, recovering from the last game,” Wayne explained on Thursday. “Obviously it’s a bit different at this time of year. I still think that in England there should be a winter break, I think that would benefit everyone but we have to get on with it, we’re professionals and we’re looking forward to it - another big game.”

Asked if a winter break would rob fans of matches like Thursday’s, Rooney said: “It would but in terms of recharging your batteries and getting the team ready it would help. I also think it would benefit the international set-up too. Hopefully that will come in. I think it’s only a matter of time.”

Smalling: Victory Vital

Chris Smalling was relieved to pick up all three points as Manchester United came back from two goals behind to defeat Hull City at the KC Stadium.

The hosts raced into a two-goal lead early on, before Smalling's header sparked the response, with Wayne Rooney's stunning effort and an own goal from former Reds defender James Chester eventually securing the win.

United centre-back Smalling was delighted to get his name on the scoresheet, and believes the victory could give his side a boost in the title race. He told MUTV: "It was great [for me] to chip in [with a goal], and I think it gave us some real momentum.

"Wayne [Rooney] has been putting in some great crosses from these set pieces and he came up with the second goal himself.

"I think it’s going to be a pivotal three points and it keeps us on this run as well, which is important because it is difficult when you have to play again two days later. It’s always easier when you go into a game off the back of a win.

"We had belief going into this game, and after this win we’ll continue to pick it up. I think we've had our setbacks this season, we need to make sure that we don’t have any more and that we keep winning."

As for the game itself, the defender was critical of the way United began the game, but praised the fighting spirit shown by his team mates.

"It was a terrible start," admitted Smalling. "In the last few games we've done well and haven’t conceded many goals, so it was very disappointing. We knew they had two big men up front, we didn't quite organise ourselves and we allowed them too much room.

"We tidied that up in the dressing room [at half-time], and luckily for us we managed to come back [and win], because otherwise it could have been a killer [result]. It was unfortunate for Hull that he [James Chester] put it in his own goal.

"Hull might feel that they had a lot of chances, especially in the last ten minutes. It was a truly crazy Boxing Day game and I've never looked at the clock so much. We need to make sure there aren't too many more games like that."

Moyes: I Never Doubted Us

Manchester United manager David Moyes says he never gave up faith that the Reds would have enough left in the locker to earn a hallmark comeback win over Hull City on Boxing Day.

The Reds allowed the home side to accrue an early two-goal advantage during a melee of an opening 13 minutes but thereafter the champions regained composure and, much to the delight of the manager, notched an important win at the KC Stadium.

“I always thought we’d go on and win it,” Moyes told MUTV. “What we’ve got here is the capability and I don’t think there would have been one supporter who thought that the game was over [when we went two down], I certainly didn’t.

“My only concern was Hull’s defensive record here this season, I think they’d only conceded three goals prior to today,” the boss added. “Thankfully, by half-time we were back level and I even thought we should have been 3-2 up by that point.”

Despite Moyes’ evident satisfaction with the result, the manager expressed his want for United to kill off opponents in order to avoid any chance of a late revival.

“When we got the third goal I really wanted the lads to go on and score again and get that fourth goal to avoid the scary moments that we had in the last five minutes.

“I had to change things around as we had a couple of injuries and then Antonio was sent off which made things even harder for us.”

Thankfully, the Reds possessed enough attacking prowess to overhaul Hull’s surprise lead. The second of United's three goals, a 26th-minute volley scored by Wayne Rooney, earned particular praise from the boss.

“It was a great volley," said Moyes. "We know that Wayne’s capable of that and that he can score all sorts of goals. He put the boy under so much pressure in the lead up to the third goal too. He played really well once again.”

The Match: Festive Fightback

After the match report, ManUtd.com casts a detailed eye over Manchester United’s pulsating 3-2 comeback win over Hull City on Boxing Day...

The Match United produced a pulsating comeback at the KC Stadium to rival last season’s similarly chaotic Boxing Day win over Newcastle. However, on this occasion, the Reds were forced to come from two goals down following a slow start on Humberside. Thankfully, David Moyes’ men reacted positively to the backs-to-the-wall position and headed into the break with parity restored, before three points were secured via James Chester’s second-half own goal. The only blemish on an otherwise positive day was the late dismissal of Antonio Valencia for two bookable offences.

The Goals Ex-Reds defender Chester scored the opening goal with a powerful close-range volley before his team-mate David Meyler doubled the Tigers’ lead with a scuffed shot that was deflected past David De Gea by Jonny Evans. Not going down without a fight, United reacted positively as Chris Smalling rose to net a super header past Allan McGregor, who picked the ball out of the net again just moments later when Wayne Rooney half-volleyed in his 150th Premier League goal for the Reds. Hull defender Chester then finished what he started; having earlier opened the scoring at the KC Stadium, he closed it by heading Ashley Young's right-wing cross past substitute goalkeeper Steve Harper.

Star men While Ashley Young and Darren Fletcher were both impressively combative in midfield, with Smalling also catching the eye at the back, Rooney was undoubtedly United’s standout figure. The England international was involved in two of the three goals and essentially pulled the strings in attack, regularly dropping deep to dictate play. He remains a talismanic figure for the Reds.

Sub plots Fletcher made his first United start since the similarly chaotic 4-3 win over Reading on 1 December 2012, building on his recent substitute appearances at Aston Villa and Stoke City. Predictably, the fans’ favourite received an ovation from the United fans and played 61 minutes before exiting the action for Javier Hernandez. His progress is a late Christmas present for all. On a separate note, Valencia earned a suspension via his late dismissal for two bookable offences.

Opposition Prior to kick-off, Hull owned the third best defensive record in Europe and had not conceded more than one goal in any match at the KC Stadium this season - two statistics that make United’s dramatic comeback win even more impressive. The Tigers were truly ferocious opponents and will feel unfortunate not to have taken at least a point from this match, having gone close to equalising during a frantic finale when Danny Graham's close-range shot was blocked by De Gea. With such determination, they should avoid relegation this campaign.

Move of the match Although there was an element of good fortune in the build-up, Rooney’s intelligent exchange with Danny Welbeck and subsequent 25-yard finish was mightily impressive; a definite goal of the season contender.

In the stands United’s travelling fans were typically vocal throughout the action, singing through a full repertoire of Christmas songs on a chilly day at the KC Stadium. Notably, there were affectionate tributes to Eric Cantona and George Best, as well as the returning Fletcher.

Rooney Praises Fighting Spirit

Wayne Rooney praised Manchester United’s fighting spirit after the Reds overturned a 2-0 deficit at the KC Stadium to notch a crucial 3-2 win.

After conceding two sloppy goals early on, the champions rallied and restored parity by the 26-minute mark. An unfortunate own goal by former United defender James Chester in the 66th minute ultimately then made it a fine day for the visitors.

Rooney, who notched his 150th Premier League strike for the club, was delighted with the resilience displayed throughout the team.

“We didn’t start well today and when it got to 2-0 [down] we knew that we were going to have to dig deep and show our fighting spirit,” Wayne told Sky Sports.

“We had to come back quick and thankfully we got the two goals before half-time."

The Reds’ no.10, whose sensational first-half strike hauled United level at 2-2, was also asked whether his landmark goal was one of his best ever.

“Probably, but I haven’t seen it back properly yet," Rooney replied. "It bounced nicely for me and I had a go.

"It was a big goal for us at an important time in the game. Once we got the third goal we tried to kill the game off [with another]. That didn’t happen. But it's a great result for us today."

United's win – the fifth in a row in all competitions – lifted the Reds to sixth in the table prior to the other Boxing Day games beginning.

“We are starting to show some real quality now," added Rooney.

"We’re having a go and we’re fighting for each other. We’re ready for the challenge and hopefully we can surprise a few people.”

Premier League: Hull City 2 Man. United 3

Wayne Rooney scored his 150th Premier League for Manchester United as the champions came from two down to secure a vastly-entertaining Boxing Day triumph at the KC Stadium.

Having arrived late to the venue due to traffic congestion, the Reds made a poor start and conceded after just four minutes when ex-United player James Chester latched onto Alex Bruce’s header to score Hull City's opener from close-range - although replays showed the corner that led to the goal should not have been given. Things then went from bad to worse as Jonny Evans diverted David Meyler’s weak shot past a helpless David De Gea.

With backs against the wall, United reacted quickly as Adnan Januzaj (on for the injured Rafael) won a free kick on the right wing, teeing up Chris Smalling to score from an expertly delivered Rooney setpiece. The latter then restored parity himself with a brilliantly taken half-volley that comfortably beat goalkeeper Allan McGregor from around 25 yards.

Hull's manager, the United legend Steve Bruce, made two enforced changes at the break - replacing goalkeeper McGregor with deputy Steve Harper and sending on Robert Koren in Meyler's place. His side restarted brightly, almost taking the lead on 52 minutes when Yannick Sagbo’s powerful drive forced a decent save from De Gea. Bruce's son Alex then struck the bar with a thumping header on the hour.

Thankfully, the Reds were relieved moments later when Ashley Young’s cross was headed into his own net by Chester. The latter's 66th-minute error ultimately sealed a terrific win, although the Reds were also grateful to De Gea for denying Danny Graham with a crucial block in injury time. The victory lifted United up to sixth place in the Barclays Premier League before the other Boxing Day matches kicked off.

Jones Suffers Knee Injury

Phil Jones faces around two weeks on the sidelines after injuring his knee.

David Moyes confirmed on Boxing Day, before United's game at Hull City, that the England international had suffered the problem in the 3-1 victory over West Ham five days earlier and said he expects him to be out of action for "a couple of weeks."

Reds' Academy Is Working

Manchester United are rightly proud of the number of players who have progressed through the Academy to enjoy successful careers in the game.

Recent research by the CIES Football Observatory found the Reds have produced more footballers in the top five European leagues than any other English club, with Aston Villa in second place, while the figures regarding those competing in the lower divisions are also impressive.

"The Premier League came up with the statistic that we have got the most homegrown players competing in league football and that is a credit to our Academy," explained Reserves coach Warren Joyce.

"It is especially satisfying that many of these are local lads who have been with us since an early age."

United youth products are scattered across all the divisions and, using the weekend before Christmas as a random sample, the club's influence has never been more evident. From the Reds' opponents West Ham, who included Ravel Morrison as their creative force in midfield at Old Trafford, to the penultimate club in the league, Bury, who had Daniel Nardiello in attack at Plymouth, the roll call is an extensive one.

Kieran Richardson scored for Fulham against Manchester City while Stoke City's central defensive pairing in the home win over Aston Villa was Ryan Shawcross and Marc Wilson. Sunderland went one better with three members of their back four former youth-teamers in John O'Shea, Wes Brown and Phil Bardsley.

United's Boxing Day opponents Hull City have five ex-Reds in their ranks - Robbie Brady, James Chester, Paul McShane, Joe Dudgeon and Cameron Stewart (who is on loan at Brentford) plus Alex Bruce was with the club until he was 16.

However, delve into the Football League and it is often even easier to find many players making their way in the game after being schooled at the Aon Training Complex. Craig Cathcart scored for Blackpool past Tom Heaton's Burnley while Oliver Norwood (Huddersfield), Chris Eagles (Bolton), Luke McCullough and Richie Wellens (Doncaster) and Danny Simpson (QPR) are others to pick out after a quick scan of the teams.

Leicester City, like Hull, have a recent tradition of acquiring United youngsters and Matty James and Danny Drinkwater were both in the midfield in the fine win at QPR. Many more ply their trade at a lower level but some, such as Paul Pogba (Juventus) and Mats Daehli (Molde), are making strides abroad.

Of course, this is not even taking into account the 13 loanees who still harbour hopes of becoming Manchester United first-teamers. These youngsters remain in the thoughts of David Moyes, as he confirmed this week, and are using the temporary moves as an opportunity to shine. And the dream of pulling on the famous red shirt at Old Trafford is far from an impossible one.

Four of the starters against West Ham - Jonny Evans, Tom Cleverley, Adnan Januzaj and Danny Welbeck - have represented the club at Under-18 level. Three more were on the bench - Sam Johnstone, Darren Fletcher and a certain Ryan Giggs - while another trio in the matchday squad - Wayne Rooney, Rafael and Phil Jones - arrived as teenagers.

It all goes to show that the production line is working at the current champions of England. For any top aspiring young footballer, the education being provided at the Aon Training Complex is second to none.

Moyes Speaks To Januzaj

David Moyes has spoken to Adnan Januzaj about simulation, but remains adamant that the 18-year-old prodigy needs protection from referees.

The Belgian-born youngster has been subjected to roughhouse tactics from top-flight defenders, most recently riding a number of tough challenges during Saturday's 3-1 win over West Ham at Old Trafford.

However, having been consistently fouled, Januzaj went to ground in the second half without contact from James Collins, who had shaped to make a challenge, prompting referee Michael Jones to produce a yellow card for simulation.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Moyes said: "What I have seen is that in the previous games he has been getting kicked from pillar to post. The referees have been quite happy to let that go. They have not been too bothered about it.

"The boy was wrong with what happened on Saturday. We have told him. He will improve because he is young. When you are getting kicked all the time and folk are lunging into tackles, sometimes you have to jump out of the way or you are going to get hurt. I just hope it doesn't take a sore one before people start doing something about it."

Moyes compared the treatment Januzaj must expect as similar to that faced by Cristiano Ronaldo in his younger years at Old Trafford. He overcame and utilised that negative attention to make himself stronger, physically and mentally.

"Some people need to realise this is a young talent. [Players] kicked Ronaldo and look at the player he went on to be. They will do it to Adnan and he will go on to become a great player in time. At the moment the job is to make sure he is able to play because he is getting the opportunity and he is getting kicked from every angle. Yes, he has made one or two mistakes but the boy will learn as he gets older."

Cleverley Answers Fans

Fans on United's official Google+ page put their questions to Tom Cleverley...

Is playing for United your ultimate dream? - Jack Dean
Yes, it always has been. When I was a young lad, it seemed a bit far-fetched, but being around the training ground benefited me because I knew how the first team operated. Stepping stones like that have helped me achieve my dream. It's now my dream to play for this club for 10 or 15 years.

What is it like to play behind Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney? - JJ Vince
It's brilliant. What stands out is that when a tough match is heading for a draw, one of them can just win it out of nowhere. Those players are priceless.

Who is the best player in the world? - Maria Ruiz Perez
It's definitely got to be Cristiano Ronaldo of late, he's just been unstoppable - scoring two or three goals in every game. He took Portugal to the World Cup and he's been in great form.

How do you feel to be playing in the same team as Ryan Giggs? - Edeh Uche
It's an honour. He's such a great example, to have the motivation to carry on after all his achievements. It's a privilege to play alongside Ryan and I'm still learning from him.

Who is the funniest player at United? - Tarekegn Aau
Patrice Evra makes me really laugh, he's right up there. I'd say it's between Pat, Welbz and Wazza. And Fletch is a dark horse, he’s got some good, dry banter. I've known Welbz the longest, so his jokes are getting a bit old now!

This interview first appeared in the Shahktar Donetsk edition of United Review.

Jones: End 2013 On A High

Phil Jones says United must adapt quickly to two games in rapid succession as the Reds see out a momentous 2013 with two Barclays Premier League away fixtures against Hull on Boxing Day and Norwich on 28 December.

United travel to the KC Stadium for a 12:45 GMT kick-off on Thursday 26 December, with Norwich next up on Saturday 28 December at 15:00 GMT. Steve Bruce's Hull side have lost just once at home this season and have conceded only three goals in East Yorkshire.

"Steve Bruce has done a great job there," Jones told MUTV. "He's got the team he wanted, the players he wanted and that's the reason why they are performing in big games. We've definitely got to be wary of them because they will be tricky opponents on Boxing Day."

The challenge with Norwich, who have lost only twice at home this term, may be in the quick turnaround in fixtures. "You can prepare for Hull but there's only so much time and so much preparation you can do," adds Jones.

"Against Norwich, most of the preparation will be on the tactics board and in the team meetings, it probably won't be much outside on the training pitch. But we've got to be ready for [the game]."

Jones is keen to see the year out with two more victories and close the chapter on an unforgettable 12 months. "It's been a good year," he adds. "Picking that Premier League trophy up at the end of the season was special, with the old boss leaving as well. The last couple of months haven't been what Manchester United are usually associated with, but we're starting to bring that back. Overall it's been a good year."

Giggs: Winter Break Would Help

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has added his support to the idea of introducing a winter break to the Barclays Premier League season.

The Reds are currently preparing to play three top-flight fixtures in the space of five days, and while Giggs is unlikely to feature in all of those games, the 40-year-old Welshman has been around long enough to know that such a schedule is not easy to navigate.

A winter break is utilised across several European leagues and many critics of English football suggest a similar schedule would benefit both the Premier League and the national team, a theory that Giggs subscribes to.

“I think I would like a winter break, it doesn’t really need to be over Christmas,” Giggs told MUTV. “I think it could just be in January, maybe when you get a couple of weeks off so you can get to go away, maybe get some sun, and then have a week’s training before getting back into the games. I don’t think it is a lot to ask for.

"But TV is huge over the festive period and obviously all of the stadiums are full. But it does have an effect on the national team. If you have a winter break then it definitely helps you. And going into the Champions League as well, you have had a little week's rest and it definitely helps you. I have benefitted from that in October and November, getting a few days off in the international breaks. It does help you and you do feel refreshed.”

With a trip to Hull City scheduled for Boxing Day, the players will report for work at the Aon Training Complex on Christmas Day to complete any last-minute preparations. And though he admits this isn’t ideal, Giggs doesn’t expect much sympathy from fans.

“It gets harder obviously when you have got kids. When you are single or have not got kids it is not too bad. But you get up early, open all of the presents, you have the kids knocking on the door at 6 o’clock. You do all of that, go to training, then go back home for five or six hours so it’s not too bad.

“And then, of course, we are off to Hull. It is not too bad. We are used to this Christmas period and I don’t think many people are going to feel too sorry for us!”

Moyes Hails Rooney's Leadership

Manchester United boss David Moyes has hailed the leadership qualities of Wayne Rooney and believes he is on the verge of greatness at Old Trafford.

Rooney, who was an injury doubt before this weekend's game, was instrumental in United's 3-1 win over West Ham and Moyes believes the England international is now playing a key role in helping his team-mates improve.

Moyes has been impressed by Rooney's attitude since taking over at Old Trafford and believes the 28-year-old is showing more maturity on his way to becoming a true United great as he enters his tenth year at the club.

"Do you know what I see more than anything in Wayne? I see leadership," said Moyes. "I see somebody who wants to take responsibility for the team. I see somebody who cares for how he plays and how the team plays. More than anything, that is what I see from Wayne.

"Maybe if he is not quite at the top of his form I will need him to drop in at times and he has no problem doing any of the jobs. He is getting to an age now where he realises he is not a boy any more. He is one of the senior men in the team. He is actually on the verge of being one of the great legends at this club.

"Because of that I think he is saying, 'I have got to take responsibility for results and for performances and make sure the players are doing it on the pitch.' The players are responding."

Moyes Set To Utilise Some Of Manchester United's Loaned Out Players In January

Manchester United manager David Moyes has revealed he is likely to strengthen his squad in January with some of the club's players who are currently out on loan.

Moyes will be looking to the transfer market to bring in new faces next month but he is also considering the possibility of bringing Nick Powell, Jesse Lingard and Ryan Tunnicliffe back to Old Trafford.

Forward Powell is currently out on loan at Wigan, while midfield duo Lingard and Tunnicliffe are at Birmingham and Ipswich respectively.

When asked about new arrivals in January, Moyes replied: "We'll try but I'm quite actively looking at our own boys.

"The likes of Jesse Lingard, Nick Powell and Ryan Tunnicliffe - the boys who are out on loan - they are the ones I am making sure I keep my eye on because they are the future.

"They are the ones who are part of the club and have been in the system so we are certainly keeping our eyes on all the boys who have been out on loan and hoping that they might be able to come back and help us if we need it in January as well."

Fellaini Out For Six Weeks

Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini underwent an operation on Saturday to mend a wrist problem he has suffered with this season and he could be out of action for up to six weeks.

The summer transfer deadline day signing has played on with the injury in recent months, knowing that an operation was inevitable, but has been on the sidelines for three weeks with a back problem. So the decision was taken that it was the right time to send the Belgian for wrist surgery.

"He had his operation on Saturday morning," David Moyes confirmed at the Aon Training Complex on Friday in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Boxing Day clash with Hull City.

"We just couldn't get him recovered from his back injury. We thought his back would be okay after 10 days but it wasn't getting any better, so we made a quick decision to get his wrist operated on, to get it done quickly. We think it will be six weeks but there's a chance it will be before that.

"His back problem was just going to take time. It was a muscle injury, which wasn't healing so it was maybe going to take longer than expected. That's why we decided to get the wrist done."

Moyes says Fellaini has been unlucky with injuries as he attempts to acclimatise to life at Old Trafford. "He doesn't feel 100 per cent fit because of the wrist," he added. "I asked him to see over the Christmas period. He got the back injury against Everton and since then he's never really been right, but we thought we might have got him back in a couple of weeks.

"He tried it and it wasn't right, so we thought the best idea was to move on, have the surgery on his wrist and give his back a chance to get well too."

There is better news for United on the injury front with the impending return of influential duo Robin van Persie (thigh) and Michael Carrick (Achilles) over the festive period. "There are always miracles at Christmas time so let's hope there could be one for Robin van Persie or Michael Carrick."

Jones: Keep It up-Tempo

Phil Jones says it is essential that Manchester United maintain the high-tempo football that has yielded four consecutive wins in three competitions.

The England international is playing his part, excelling either as a midfield minder or rock-solid stopper at the heart of United's defence, and is revelling in the way the Reds have cranked up the rapid passing and quick attacking play - both of which are club hallmarks.

"We've shown in the last few games that we're starting to find our feet again in the United way," said Jones, following Saturday's 3-1 win over West Ham.

"We're in a good place at the moment and the last four games have helped us get to that stage, after the disappointment of the two games against Everton and Newcastle. We've done well to bounce back. We needed to play at a higher tempo [than we had been before] and now we're playing well, we're passing the ball well and we need to keep on doing it. We needed to kick on over these last four or five games and we need to keep doing it."

Liverpool and Manchester City both won on Saturday so United couldn't make up any ground on those two teams, but sustained good form over the Christmas period could dramatically push the Reds up the table from seventh spot.

"Listen, we can only concentrate on our games," said Jones, referring to United's rivals. "We look forward to the games over Christmas. It's a chance to put points on the board rapidly and we need everyone fighting and ready to go."

Phil Jones was speaking to ManUtd.com and PA Sport.

Valencia: We Are On The Charge

Antonio Valencia has rediscovered some of his best form this season, so when United Review caught up with the flying Ecuadorian winger he spoke about his and the Reds' determination to turn in a successful campaign...

David Moyes has been full of praise for you this season – how happy are you with your form?
‪I've been pleased. It's something I've been working hard on and I will continue to work hard to make sure I keep doing my job ‪well. I must say as well that, as a team, I think ‪we are improving and our form is on the up. ‪It's important we keep that going.

‪You previously stated that you weren't too happy last season from ‪a personal perspective; what have you ‪done differently this term?
‪I suppose the previous season to that [2011/12] I'd set the bar quite high with my ‪performances, which was something that ‪was a little unexpected but I was very happy about. Last season I had a niggling problem ‪with my back, which didn't allow me to train ‪properly, whereas there is no sign of that now. ‪I feel great, and have been able to train to my ‪maximum and put in 100 per cent. That ‪has been paying dividends in the games.

You changed your shirt number this term, what was the thinking behind that?
‪There is no negative reason as to why I changed ‪it. I don't want people to think that I wasn't ‪doing my job for the team because of any added ‪pressure of wearing the no.7 shirt, it was more ‪to do with the fact that 25 was the number I had ‪when I first came to the club and I played well ‪wearing that number. So I thought 'why don't ‪I go back to 25?' because I had good times and ‪good fortune in that shirt.

‪David Moyes has slightly changed the team's system this season – has that impacted on your form?
I'm just trying to do what the manager tells me! [Smiles] He has come in with his own way of ‪setting things up tactically and it's down to us ‪as players to work hard as a unit to put all that ‪into practice. Any formation changes haven't ‪had too big an effect on me because my job is ‪about getting past defenders, putting crosses ‪in and creating chances for others. But I also ‪understand I have a job to do when it comes to ‪combining tactically with others around me so ‪I've focused on doing both.

You've played with a variety of full-backs behind you this term – Rafael, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones – and seem to have a good relationship with them all...
Yes, it's great and I enjoy playing with all of them. I don't have a preference for which player I play with. ‪I think we all work well together and have a ‪good understanding. Those three players are all having good seasons as well.

How would you sum up the campaign so ‪far from the team's perspective?
Whenever you get a new manager, you're always going to have a settling-in period where ‪there might be some negative results as well as positive ones. We've had some incredible games this season in which we've played really ‪well, but other times we haven't played as well as we've wanted to and things have gone ‪against us. The win at Aston Villa was important and we want to build on that.

‪You and your team-mates are used to being among the leading pack in the league – how have you dealt with not being up there so far?
It hurts. We're a team that is always used to being up around the top two or three places in ‪the league. Where we are now, after dropping ‪some silly points against teams we know we ‪should have beaten, especially at home, hurts ‪even more. It's difficult, but all you can do ‪is look back at what's gone wrong in certain ‪games and focus on putting those things right ‪and doing your best.

‪There are lots of points up for grabs over the festive period; how influential can this spell be for United?
This is always a big time in the season and it's down to us to work really hard ‪and play well. It would be nice to ‪see the other teams above us drop some points, but we know we ‪need to aim for maximum points from these games. There have ‪been some crazy results in ‪the league this season, but that's the Premier League for you. Every team can take points off ‪each other. We have a chance ‪to put a run of results together ‪in the next couple of weeks and we must do that.

‪What would the players regard as a successful campaign?
Our aim for the moment is to make sure we are in and around the top four or five ‪at the start of January so we can push on ‪from there. Our aim and objective every season is to win as many trophies as we can; ‪that hasn't changed. It never will.

This interview was first published in United Review, the official matchday programme.

Moyes Not Chasing New Striker

Manchester United boss David Moyes has ruled out a move for a new striker in January, feeling he has enough attacking options at his disposal at Old Trafford.

Moyes has been credited with an interest in unsettled Monaco striker Radamel Falcao, while Atletico Madrid ace Diego Costa has also been mentioned as possible target.

However, Moyes insists there is no need to bring in a new forward as he is happy with his current strikeforce, feeling Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Javier Hernandez, Danny Welbeck and Shinji Kagawa offer more than enough up front.

"I would not say we are in desperate need of an out-and-out centre-forward," said Moyes. "We have got Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, Chicharito (Hernandez), Danny Welbeck. Shinji can play in behind as well, we are covered.

"It is easy for people to throw names up, but when they look at it more closely you might say it wasn't that good a suggestion."

Moyes has confirmed he will look to add to his squad in the New Year, but accepts it may be difficult to land his top targets in January.

"We will look [at targets]," Moyes added. "But I wouldn't turn around and say that I'm massively sure that we will get them.

"Because a lot of the players we would be interested in wouldn't be available for us in that month of January.

"But we'll certainly be looking."

Van Persie Progressing Well

Robin van Persie is making good progress in his bid to return to fitness but is unlikely to be available for Manchester United's Boxing Day trip to Hull City, according to David Moyes.

The Dutch striker suffered a thigh injury while taking the corner that led to the winning goal against Shakhtar Donetsk on 10 December, with a recovery time initially estimated at around one month.

"Robin is progressing, he’s coming on, and he is feeling quite good," David Moyes said. "He had a similar injury at Arsenal on his thigh, so it is something we have to be sure about [before he returns]. It wouldn’t be much good if it got repeated, so we will try to take it steady.”

With 10 goals in all competitions so far this season, the Dutch international has continued in a similar vein to his first year at Old Trafford, when his 26 goals were key to a 20th league title triumph. When asked if Boxing Day was too soon for Robin to restart his campaign, Moyes replied, “I think it probably will be.”

The manager pointed out that the timing of van Persie's return to availability is decided by a collective, including the striker himself as well as the staff.

“Obviously the medical team are controlling him, but we speak to Robin as well about how he feels and what he feels he needs to do. We’re doing everything we can to make sure he’s well looked after and well treated.”

Young Sets Nine-point Target

Ashley Young was thrilled with his second goal of the week as Manchester United took the first step towards maximum points from the three festive fixtures going into 2014.

The Reds defeated West Ham 3-1 and face two games on the road, against Hull City and Norwich City, before the year draws to a close. The England winger followed up his spectacular strike at Stoke City in the Capital One Cup with another beauty past Hammers keeper Adrian and feels the Reds must keep the winning run going.

"Before midweek, I hadn’t scored in 18 or 19 months and to get two in a week is fantastic," Young told MUTV. "It’s like when buses come along!

"I’m obviously delighted to get on the scoresheet but the performance was even better and I thought we dominated the game from the very start. When we got the first goal, we kicked on from there, kept possession and did a great job, even if West Ham came back into it in the second half.

"It’s vitally important [to win] now we are going into this busy Christmas and New Year period. Getting wins and points on the board is what we want to do. We’ve got nine points up for grabs between now and the New Year and we want to keep building that momentum."

Fellaini Set For Extended Absence

Manchester United's Marouane Fellaini may have a wrist operation that would rule him out for six weeks - depending on the progress of his back injury.

The 26-year-old Belgium international has been out of action since hurting his back in early December, and is due to have a further scan on the problem.

If the results are not positive, it is likely he will have the wrist operation he has been putting off.

The midfielder injured the wrist against Shakhtar Donetsk in October.

His last game was the 1-0 defeat by his former club Everton at Old Trafford on 4 December.

"Fellaini has an injury to his back, which we hoped might have healed up but it hasn't," said United manager David Moyes.

"I am going to get another scan and if it hasn't healed up then I might need to take the decision to get his wrist done as well.

"We hoped his back would be better in 10 days but he is still feeling it. It's a muscle that has separated from the bone in his back and that is what is causing the problem.

"We're not going to say we're doing that [wrist operation] yet."

Welbeck Harbours Bright Outlook

Positive thinking is the only way for Manchester United to keep building momentum, according to Danny Welbeck.

The striker hit his third goal in six days as United notched a fourth straight win in all competitions with a 3-1 Barclays Premier League victory over West Ham United.

That sequence, which followed a run of three games without a win, stems from the right attitude within David Moyes' squad, who have turned in increasingly up-tempo displays.

"It's good to get the three points," Welbeck told Sky Sports. "We had to make sure once we came out today we were ready to go, and thankfully we got a couple of goals in the first half and then managed to control the game.

"As a squad, we've sat down and agreed that we really want to get the performances under our belt and start winning games. That's four wins, we've set a platform now, so we've got to keep on building momentum.

"You've always got to keep positive. That's the Manchester United way. There are no negative vibes, we just stick to the positives."

Welbeck was substituted shortly before the hour mark of Saturday's victory, with what was later confirmed as a sore knee. United's next match is against Hull City on Boxing Day.

Cleverley Praises Goalscorers

Tom Cleverley has heaped praise on the goalscoring trio in Manchester United's 3-1 success against West Ham.

The midfielder was in fine form himself, passing with precision throughout, and set the tone early on with a shot that forced a sprawling save out of Barclays Premier League debutant Adrian. The Hammers' keeper was later beaten by Danny Welbeck, Adnan Januzaj and substitute Ashley Young.

"It looked to be a fantastic save," Cleverley said of his effort. "Danny’s goal was a great finish but he also brings pace, power and he works incredibly hard for the team. That’s an area of Danny’s game where people outside the game don’t see. He’s a great team member and I’m happy he’s getting the goals that he deserves.

"Adnan's got special potential and the fans love him. He’s settled in really quickly, he’s got a great attitude and a promising future ahead. The team don’t want to put too much pressure on him or build him up too much, but he’s got fantastic potential, a good head on him and that’s a nice mixture.

"[Young's last two goals were] both absolute screamers. He’s got that in his locker and I’m really pleased that he’s come out of a disappointing spell and is still a massively important player for us."

Boss Protective Of Januzaj

Manchester United manager David Moyes is remaining protective of Adnan Januzaj after the exciting teenager was in the spotlight again during the win against West Ham.

The 18-year-old felt he should have earned a penalty after being barged over by Mark Noble before netting his first-ever goal at Old Trafford with a firm finish after a beautiful shimmy past James Collins.

An incident involving Welsh defender Collins also saw Januzaj booked for simulation when he went to ground as the centre-back shaped to make an aggressive challenge. It prompted questions about the matter but Moyes feels the attention was focused in the wrong direction.

Javier Hernandez was hurt by a poor tackle from George McCartney and required treatment, with referee Mike Jones opting to produce a yellow card for the offence - the same punishment that was meted out to Januzaj.

"It was a great goal," applauded the boss. "He’s got an array of goals and can score with both feet.

"He showed composure in the box, sitting the player down to make the room to score. He’s an exceptional talent but he’s still 18 and we have to mindful of that. I thought there were a few things today when his youthfulness went ahead of him a bit but we’re really pleased by how he’s doing.

"I’m concerned with the number of tackles he’s having to deal with. If you look in every game, he’s probably getting tackled or kicked more than anybody.

"We’ll have a word with him and make sure he does things right. I think today he thought that Collins was going to come in and clatter him, so he tried to ride it and it’s looked worse than it actually was."

Moyes was clearly unhappy with the later challenge on Hernandez, who came in for some rough treatment and was unlucky to see a goal disallowed.

"It may be you're picking on the wrong tackle today," he asserted. "I thought I'd be asked about the tackle on Hernandez. The referee didn't deal with it so you can only go on that. He saw a bit of simulation in the other one but didn't see that one. What we've got to do is make sure we're not the ones coming out and complaining too much.

"I came out last week and mentioned the number of tackles Adnan was having to deal with but it’s up to the referees to make sure this doesn’t happen. Adnan is very difficult to mark. He's elusive and the way he moves can bring defenders in to tackle and it's the referees who have to call it. I just hope they don't wait until he gets a bad one before they get it right."

Moyes Pleased With Form

David Moyes was satisfied with the 3-1 victory against West Ham and feels his Manchester United side are starting to create more chances.

The Reds were worthy of a three-goal lead against the Hammers with Danny Welbeck, Adnan Januzaj and Ashley Young on the scoresheet before Carlton Cole's late consolation. It sets the Reds up nicely for the trips to Hull and Norwich in the next week.

"We've had a couple of really good victories and another good one today so I'm really pleased with that," enthused the boss.

"I was pleased for the players because I think they earned it by playing well. We might have scored more and, probably should have scored more, but I am really pleased with how we performed.

"We're beginning to get better and beginning to create more chances. We could have had four or five but didn't quite make the opportunities to take a chance. Also, Chicharito was onside [when having a goal disallowed] if you see it again, so that could have been another one.

"Our play is getting much better and I think the players are getting much better too. I see that they’ve got real confidence when taking the ball. There were some real good passes and inter-play for the first goal between Wayne [Rooney] and Danny. It was great to see Danny get on the scoresheet once again even though he came off with a bit of a sore knee. It will do his confidence a world of good. He’s getting some goals now and showing that he can do that."

Cole's effort may not have cost the Reds any points but it was frustrating to see David De Gea's run of shut-outs come to an end.

"Conceding the goal was a disappointment as we'd kept three clean sheets in a row and looked on course for a fourth," admitted Moyes. "We didn't defend it well enough, we left the boy onside when we shouldn't have but, overall, I'm not disappointed.

"I thought the victory was not really in doubt at any time. I think the best thing is to try to win the next game. There is a long way to go but we'll try to win the next one and see how we go."

The Match: Hammer Time

The Match United's early intent promised much and a two-goal lead at the break was fully warranted as an up-tempo approach gave West Ham no time to settle in possession. The visitors offered little attacking threat, and that which existed was decisively snuffed out by a dominant defensive display from United's back four and midfield minders – that is, until that one defensive lapse at the end, allowing Carlton Cole to capitalise. By that point, Ashley Young had already made it 3-0, a lead that understated the Reds' control of the game. Cole’s goal curtailed hopes of a fourth successive clean sheet; a minor irritant on a comfortable afternoon.

The Goals A pair of beautifully-taken efforts made the difference for United in the first half. Welbeck's opener - his first Old Trafford goal in 14 months - stemmed from his own sublime flick inside to Rooney, whose return pass was clinically fired home. A similar exchange between Welbeck and Januzaj culminated in an equally emphatic finish by the teenager, as Januzaj dropped a shoulder and evaded James Collins before steering a shot past Adrian. After the break, substitute Young hit the finish of the game with a magnificent, top-corner effort with his first touch.

Star men As much as this game was characterised by United’s attacking intent, Chris Smalling provided a flawless display in defence, oozing confidence in possession and dominant when trying to win it back. Phil Jones was equally prominent in midfield, reading play and providing defensive cover to prevent West Ham’s intermittent attacks. Wayne Rooney underlined his importance to the cause with a part in all three goals.

Sub plots Ravel Morrison, once a bright prospect in United’s youth ranks, made a largely frustrating first return to Old Trafford. He was booked for kicking out at Tom Cleverley, who went on to help United win the midfield battle, playing a key role in dictating the Reds’ tempo.

Opposition West Ham offered precious little in the way of a genuine attacking threat for most of the afternoon, so much so that Carlton Cole’s goal after 81 minutes was a source of frustration for David Moyes. Substitute Alex Büttner had only been on the pitch a minute and was perhaps not fully up to speed as he inadvertently played Cole onside when the rest of the defence had stepped up.

Move of the match The build-up for United’s goals, ultimately, were the most incisive, but late in the first period a break-neck counter-attack deserved a better finish than it received. Smalling's towering header released Valencia, who motored forward and swapped passes with Rafael before steering his finish over the bar.

In the stands Festive for periods, particularly midway through the second period. Credit to West Ham's vocal visiting fans, who sang: "You're not special, we lose every week.” We prefer to think United got the game-plan right – good tempo, attacking intent, and clinical in front of goal. So everyone in Red goes home happy ahead of Christmas.

Premier League: Man. United 3 West Ham United 1

A commanding performance against West Ham United, embossed by beautifully crafted goals from Danny Welbeck, Adnan Januzaj and Ashley Young, gave Manchester United a 3-1 victory and a first Barclays Premier League home win since beating Arsenal in November.

The Reds made an ideal start to the hectic festive period with an up-tempo display from the off, almost forging ahead inside two minutes as Tom Cleverley’s close-range effort was well fended away by Hammers goalkeeper Adrian.

Wayne Rooney, who recovered from a groin injury to return to David Moyes’ lineup, arced a free-kick narrowly past the Spaniard’s top corner before Antonio Valencia’s drilled effort was beaten away. The Hammers’ resistance was ended before the half-hour, however, as Welbeck impishly flicked a pass to Rooney, motored onto the return ball and fired a left-footed finish across Adrian.

The Reds’ strike duo combined again as United's lead was doubled 10 minutes later. Rooney charged down James Collins’ clearance and Welbeck combined with Januzaj to release the teenage winger inside the visitors’ area. Shimmying inside, Januzaj left Collins in his wake before crashing an unstoppable low finish past Adrian.

United might have substantially enhanced the scoreline, with Valencia firing over after a lightning counter-attack, Jonny Evans having a header nudged wide by Mark Noble and Chicharito seeing a goal disallowed for a contentious offside decision. With 18 minutes remaining, substitute Young rounded off the hosts' scoring with a magnificent finish high into the top corner after a simple lay-off from Rooney. Hammers substitute Carlton Cole sprung United's offside trap and slid in a finish to deny the Reds a clean sheet, but that couldn't take the gloss off a composed, commanding display.

Moyes: No Fear Factor At Old Trafford

Manchester United boss David Moyes insists there is no fear in the squad as they try to avoid a third straight league defeat at Old Trafford.

United have not lost three successive league games at Old Trafford since 1979, and defeats to Everton and Newcastle mean that is a possibility when West Ham visit on Saturday.

Patrice Evra says he believes there is a growing fear factor at home games, but Moyes disagrees with his left-back.

"The results have not been what we wanted," said Moyes. "Because of that, words like nervy, vulnerability, anxious all come to mind.

"But I have never personally found that. The fans have backed the team. They know we need to play better and we need to score some more goals but it has not been for the want of trying."

Saturday's game is the start of a four-match period when United will hope to improve their fortunes.

For some, it represents too much football. Yet Moyes remembers a time when it was even worse.

"I remember the days when it was quite often two games in two days," said the Scot.

"I played in situations like that. We are complaining now because it is two in three days but we are used to playing at Christmas in our country."

Evra: We Are Nervous At Old Trafford

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra believes the team are showing signs of nerves when they play at Old Trafford.

United's season has been patchy so far, with progression in the Champions League and Carling One Cup, but the team's form in the Premier League sees them sitting in eighth position.

Evra has been particularly concerned with the home displays though, which have resulted in recent defeats to Everton and Newcastle.

"After we lost against Everton, it was obvious we looked a little bit worried during the game against Newcastle," the 32-year-old said.

"The crowd were not happy sometimes and that is not easy for anyone. But we play for Manchester United. We have to deal with it because we need the supporters.

"If they want to criticise us, we deserve that because when you play for Manchester United, you have to play with pressure."

But the France international insists there is no point in dwelling on past displays as he looks towards this weekend's visit from West Ham.

"I am not looking at the table and I don't want to look at the future," he added. "I want to look at the present; West Ham at home.

"Last year we won that kind of game. This season we have more trouble at Old Trafford.

"That is why we have to show our character and personality and play with the Manchester United spirit. We have to respect the shirt."

Welbeck: I Am Working Hard

Manchester United forward Danny Welbeck insists he has always been prepared to work hard on improving his game.

United boss David Moyes recently revealed that he has had to encourage the England international to put in extra hours on his finishing.

Welbeck claims to be unaware of the comments, but is adamant that he is not one to hide at training and is always looking at ways to make himself a better player.

He said in The Sun: "I have been doing that ever since I have been at United.

"I have been injured this season so maybe the manager has not seen me on the training pitch as much. I haven't seen what he has said.

"At Manchester United, I want to be working hard and I have been doing that ever since I was a young kid.

"I just want to keep on getting better and improving.

"Those extra hours on the training pitch, whether it be with the boys or individually, I am just looking to improve. I want some more goals and I have got a figure in my mind."

Welbeck drew a blank in United's Capital One Cup quarter-final victory over Stoke City on Wednesday, but is looking forward to trying to gun down former loan employers Sunderland in the last four of that competition.

He added: "I really enjoyed my time at Sunderland. The fans were great, the stadium is great and it is such a family club. I really enjoyed it and it will be good to go back.

"That is where I learned my trade, getting games in the Premier League and scoring goals as well.

"I really enjoyed my time and it will be a good occasion to go back, especially because it is a semi-final and we could get to Wembley.

"Whoever we got would have been difficult.

"We fancy ourselves against anyone, though, you have got to go into the games with confidence."

Manchester United Confirm Nani Hamstring Injury

Manchester United winger Nani has been ruled out for "a few weeks" with a hamstring injury.

The 27-year-old, who has made eight league appearances so far this season, has not featured since the 1-0 home defeat by Newcastle on 7 December.

"[It] is a little bit worse than we thought," said manager David Moyes.

Portugal international Nani has featured sporadically under Moyes, although he requires just three more league appearances to match last season's tally of 11.

The former Sporting Lisbon player signed a contract extension in September, which could keep him at Old Trafford until 2018.

Evra - Great Man, Great Leader

Patrice Evra is "a great man, and a great leader" for Manchester United, according to Reds boss David Moyes.

The Frenchman has impressed Moyes during the United manager's first six months in charge at Old Trafford, playing in 21 of the Reds' 26 games so far this season.

But it's not just on the field that Evra continues to wield his considerable influence as one of United's experienced squad members. Off the field, too, he commands respect and demands high standards.

"Pat is one of the finest men and leaders around the dressing room that I have ever seen," Moyes said of Evra.

"He speaks well about everything he does, speaks great about the club. He reminds all the boys what their jobs and their duties are. He has been very good. He is inspirational behind the scenes."

During Moyes' first season in the job, influential players such as Evra perform a key role as the new boss makes his mark on the club.

"He is great for me and he has been great for the team because he has been a really top player for a long time now," Moyes told reporters at the Aon Training Complex on Friday.

"Pat knows we have to have a strong Manchester United. He knows we have to play well. He demands. He doesn't think winning one game is it. He says, 'No, we win all the games.' He is a great man and a great leader."

Boss Lauds Januzaj Progress

David Moyes has praised Adnan Januzaj and reiterated his desire to maintain the famous youth policy that was first put in place by Sir Matt Busby.

The boss believes Januzaj is “way ahead of schedule” for an 18-year-old, who has arguably been the breakout star of the 2013/14 Premier League season.

Speaking to the media at the Aon Training Complex on Friday, Moyes also explained how the words of his legendary predecessor Sir Matt have inspired him to blood more youngsters into the first team at Old Trafford.

“He [Januzaj] is way ahead of schedule," Moyes told reporters. "He is doing brilliantly well. We took him on tour then we had him back at the start of the season, then he just kicked onto another gear. He was going past people on the inside, the outside and all his decision-making at the time was correct. He can score with both feet. We just thought this boy had gone on so quickly – he never let us down when he went to Sunderland. He is still learning. We still have to be careful with him.

“I read the thing Sir Matt Busby said about having to put the boys in and give them a chance, I see it written on the walls around the Academy. I want to be a manager who does give young boys an opportunity. I was like that at Everton and at Preston as well. I hope I am able to do that at Manchester United. Adnan has come to the fore and shown us what he is capable of.”

Moyes Eyes More Goals

David Moyes wants the United squad to follow the example of Ashley Young and Patrice Evra by adding goals from throughout the team.

Young became the Reds’ 14th different goal scorer in all competitions this term when he smashed the ball past Stoke City goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen in Wednesday night’s Capital One Cup win, while left-back Evra’s follow-up was the France international’s second of the season.

Tom Cleverley opened his account for 2013/14 at Villa Park last Sunday, and with Robin van Persie ruled out until January with a thigh problem the manager wants the rest of his players to contribute as much as possible.

“We want goals to come from everybody,” Moyes insists. “We keep telling them that we need as many goals as we can from all different areas.

"Hopefully you get the majority from your strikers throughout the season but it was good the other night that Ashley got himself a goal and Pat scored himself a really nice goal as well.”

Moyes is looking to extend the current unbeaten run when West Ham visit on Saturday, but despite the last two home games in the Barclays Premier League ending in defeat, he has been impressed with the way the Old Trafford crowd have backed the team to the hilt in adversity.

“I have never found Old Trafford nervy, I have not found it that way at all. In fact I have found it the opposite, I think it’s a brilliant place to be,” the boss added.

“I have found that the support from the crowd is fantastic, and they are right behind the team. Obviously we have got to win and score a few more goals, so we will try and do the best we can.”

Evans Welcomes Sunderland Tie

Jonny Evans is excited to face his former club Sunderland during next month’s two-legged Capital One Cup semi-final, having spent two spells on loan with the North East club.

The Northern Irishman moved to the Stadium of Light as a youngster in January 2007, helping Roy Keane’s Black Cats secure promotion to the Premier League before returning the following January to aid their successful fight to retain top-flight status.

Evans has plenty of fond memories from his time on Wearside. When speaking to the media after Wednesday’s quarter-final win over Stoke City, the 25-year-old explained why he's delighted with the semi-final draw.

“I had two loans spells there and I loved my time at Sunderland," Jonny outlined. "In my first season there we won the Championship with Roy Keane as manager and then the next season I went back there and we managed to stay in the Premier League which was a good achievement at the time.

“It gave me a good platform to return to United and fight for a first-team spot. I was very fortunate with my loan moves. I went to Royal Antwerp which was a good experience and then had two spells at Sunderland and each of my loan spells were about progression in terms of the quality of the opposition. And it has definitely benefitted me.”

United are favourites to seal a place to the final against either Manchester City or West Ham. However, having studied Sunderland under new manager Gus Poyet, Evans is wary of the challenge ahead.

“I watched Sunderland beat Chelsea and not only are they fighting for Gus Poyet but he has also got them playing some good football," said Evans. "They controlled large parts of the game against Chelsea. They had some good possession. So it will be a more difficult game than people will imagine.”

The Reds sealed progress to the last four thanks to Wednesday’s relatively comfortable 2-0 win over Stoke, a match that was temporarily postponed because of the poor visibility conditions caused by a torrential hailstorm at the Britannia Stadium.

Although the decision to return to the sanctuary of the changing room was welcomed by the players, Evans revealed that his mind was split with regards to bad weather.

“We couldn’t see; the wind was blowing the hailstones into our eyes. They were the hardest hail stones I’ve ever felt. They were actually coming into your eyes so you couldn’t keep your eyes open. You’re torn about whether to stay on and give it the 'hard man' look or just get to the shelter of the dugout – I made sure I made a bee line for the dugout!”

Capital One Cup Semi-final Draw: United To Meet Sunderland

Manchester United's reward for beating Stoke City in the Capital One Cup is a semi-final clash with Sunderland.

After seeing off the Potters 2-0 at the Britannia Stadium through goals by Ashley Young and Patrice Evra, the Reds will take on the Black Cats in early 2014.

The first leg against Gus Poyet's side, who beat Chelsea after extra-time in the quarter-finals, is at the Stadium of Light during the week beginning Monday 6 January, with the return at Old Trafford a fortnight later.

It's the first time United have reached the last four of this competition since winning it in 2010 and David Moyes will have a return to Wembley in his sights.

"We have a tough semi-final against Sunderland now," the manager said after the game. "It shows you how well Sunderland played to beat Chelsea – they did well.

"A lot of things can happen between now and then but I’m just really pleased we’ve got ourselves into the semi-finals."

In the other tie, which was drawn by ex-Red Andy Cole and Peter Reid, Manchester City take on West Ham. City are at home first before travelling to Upton Park.