UNITED 2 – 0 PALACE

Last updated : 11 November 2004 By editor

Fergie:

“Louis took his goal well and could have added to it in the end. There were a few hard tackles going in but he handled the situation well. When any forward is going through a spell like that, they wonder when they will score again, so I am really pleased for him."

Iain Dowie:

"I always thought he was outstanding at Fulham and everyone I have spoken to who played with him speaks very highly of him. He is quick, good in the air, is brave and has two good feet. You don't pay £12million for someone who can't play. It wouldn't surprise me if he went on to get a bucketload now.

“This was a very important competition for us and I expected us to perform better than we did. I realise Saha cost four times more than my entire squad but I am surprised more of them didn’t step up to the challenge of playing at Old Trafford. We conceded two soft goals and at this level, you don’t get away with that.”

Darren Fletcher:

"That is what the League Cup is all about. We want to go on and win it but it is great for the young players to get into the first team and play in front of a big crowd.

"It’s important to get 90 minutes under my belt. It’s been frustrating this season but I just have to keep working hard and do my best to impress the manager."

Kieran Richardson:


“To get on the score sheet was great for me. I was really pleased with it. We don’t get a lot of chances but we put a good performance in and put the thought in the mind of the manager to play us.

"We played some good football and I felt we attacked quite well. Scoring the goal just before half time seemed to settle us down.

"I just want to get in the first team. As long as I am playing - at left-back or left midfield – I am happy. I will play anywhere."