WE KNEW WE'D BE TOP

“The position hasn't exceeded our expectations, because our expectation is high every year - that is to win the league.

“We believe that the decisions we are making day-to-day and the quality the training ground is producing has formed a well-balanced squad that have the capability to win.

“The younger players have shown a winning maturity and know what it has taken to get there. The next job is to stay there as previous teams at this club have done.

“When I first came to United I found the manager very relaxed, open and honest. He told me the qualities he was looking for. I had a genuine feeling that one person wanted me to come.

“The manager is incredible in how he handles the day-to-day situations and all that this club can throw at him, not just from a football point of view, but from inside the 'goldfish bowl.'

“You think of one thing and run it past the manager and he will give you totally different alternatives. It's impressive as he knows the consequence of every action.

“Sir Alex always says ‘challenge the player', and we do that every day.”