Smith gives Alex's men lead at Alex

Crewe 0 Manchester United 1

Alan Smith’s seventh goal of the campaign gave a stronger than expected Manchester United side the interval lead in their Carling Cup encounter with Crewe.

Although none of the starting line-up from Sunday’s bruising win over Arsenal retained their place at Gresty Road, there were nine internationals on show for the visitors.

And it was two of the most notable United men who combined for the 10th-minute opener as Louis Saha set up Smith, who rifled past Ben Williams at the first attempt.