Alex Ferguson happy for Manchester United to 'grind results out'
United beat West Ham 1-0 in midweek
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted Manchester United need to grind results out during the current congested phase of the season.
United head to Reading tomorrow evening having maintained their place at the top of the Barclays Premier League thanks to their 1-0 win over West Ham on Wednesday.
It was not pretty though as once Robin van Persie had scored the fastest goal of the season after just 33 seconds, United laboured their way to victory, enduring a few nervy moments before claiming the points.
However, with the final match of their Champions League group phase looming, followed by the crucial trip to Manchester City and then the packed festive programme, Ferguson accepts it is purely about picking up points just now.
"It is the time of the year when you grind results out," he said.
"The internationals are out of the way and we play our last group game in the Champions League next Wednesday, which gives us further opportunity to concentrate on the league.
"It is a big moment for us."
Improvement is required though.
Whether it is having to come from behind or finding it impossible to overcome obdurate opponents, rarely have the Red Devils emerged from any game trouble-free this term.
"It was a long way from a classic," said Michael Carrick.
"The biggest plus was the clean sheet, which at least gives us something to build on.
"We had a spell a few years ago when we really started games well and could have killed teams off.
"We want to try and get back to something near that because Old Trafford is a difficult place to come when you go a goal down."
Further changes can be anticipated for the trip to the Madejski Stadium.
Paul Scholes returns from suspension, whilst if Antonio Valencia has recovered from a hip problem he could also be involved as United found the diamond formation Ferguson deployed on Wednesday something of a struggle.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments