Smith leads United's Euro challenge

Alex Ferguson has praised Alan Smith for leading the Manchester United attack this season – and wants him to continue in the Champions League qualifier tonight.

The £7m (€10.4m) striker was part of the Leeds squad that reached the semi-final of the competition three years ago.

Now he is aiming to push past Dinamo Bucharest – United hold a 2-1 advantage - and reach the group stages.

“He has been a fantastic bonus for us,” said Ferguson. “He has carried the brunt of the front line since the day he came.

“He has shown fantastic desire to perform in every match. He never stops running and has been terrific.

“It is an extra bonus for us that he has picked up European experience – and good experience at that.”