Ferguson hails his best United squad

ALEX FERGUSON began his 22nd year in charge of Manchester United in much the same way he has spent so many of the previous seasons, masterminding a convincing 2-0 victory at Old Trafford that returned his team to the top of the Premier League last night.

Two goals from Cristiano Ronaldo ensured that Wayne Rooney’s absence was a non-factor against Blackburn and, more importantly, showed that the young squad he is assembling is well capable of adding to Ferguson’s trophy haul.

Coming, as it did, against his former player Mark Hughes who is widely thought to be a genuine contender to eventually replace Ferguson, the victory must have been especially rewarding.