Ferguson impressed with United win

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson was impressed with the quality of tonight’s Champions League match with Juventus at Old Trafford.

United won 2-1 with goals from Wes Brown and Ruud van Nistelrooy to move within touching distance of a place in the quarter-finals, with Pavel Nedved scoring a consolation goal in injury time.

And Ferguson said: “There was great quality in the game. In terms of Europe maybe you won’t see a better game tonight.”

“It was an important night. Juventus were maybe missing two or three players, but showed what a strong squad they have – probably a stronger one than us.

“It was a marvellous ball from David Beckham for the second goal and a great finish from Ruud – it was fantastic execution.”

The Scot also had words of praise for John O’Shea, who excelled in defence following his introduction to the action as a substitute for Mikael Silvestre in the 52nd minute.

Ferguson added: “He has fantastic potential.

“I keep saying ‘take your time with him’ but sometimes a player comes along and forces himself in – and that’s the way it’s going with John.”