VIEWS FROM THE PRESS BOX

The only disappointment for United, who also survived a penalty when the game was goalless, was the injury which forced Rio Ferdinand to limp out of the fray six minutes from time. The £29.1m defender appeared to damage a thigh and United will assess his condition this morning.

Ferguson, who had lambasted his side's "dismal derby display" and "horrendous dip in standards" in the programme, left out Fabien Barthez and the Neville brothers. Both the performance and result pleased him. "There was a good level of hunger and commitment. We were a bit tentative early on, but the confidence came after we got some attacks going."

Veron, another who did not cover himself in glory in the 3-1 defeat by City, was singled out for praise after his fourth goal in seven outings in this season's competition (the Argentinian has yet to score in the Premiership). "He seems to revel in the European games," Ferguson said.

Midway through the first half, Laurent Blanc directed a free-kick by David Beckham against the far upright. By that point, however, United should have been trailing and might have been down to 10 men. Dimitar Berbatov's through-ball sent Thomas Brdaric through against Ricardo, the goalkeeper bringing own the striker as he tried to round him.

However, United made the points safe with 21 minutes remaining. Veron fed Paul Scholes, whose clever flick sent Van Nistelrooy clear to sidefoot past Butt from six yards for his first goal since 7 October.Having appeared bereft of confidence before scoring, Veron had an outstanding second half.

Butt had to conjure a point-blank save to stop him adding to his European haul with a diving header. But United, in stark contrast with last Saturday, were happy with their evening's work.