Sir Alex insists there were plenty of positives to take from United’s performance against Villarreal on Wednesday night, even though the Reds failed to find the back of the net.

“I think we played some good football," he told MUTV.

"The lads expressed themselves and enjoyed themselves and played with a great deal of commitment. Considering three or four players were playing their first real game of the season I think we can take heart from that performance. We were unlucky not to win it."

"Carlos Tevez had a shot knocked off the line and Jonny Evans hit the inside of the post. I think Cristiano would have scored with his header had Carlos Tevez not got in his eyeline, which distracted him a bit.

"But I’m pleased with the performance. I think the boys showed great commitment."

The manager was also impressed with the contributions from midfielders Owen Hargreaves, Ji-sung Park and Nani. Park and Nani were particularly lively down the flanks in the first half, while Owen Hargreaves bossed the centre of the park.

“Ji-sung Park was absolutely fantastic tonight. I was very pleased with his performance. And aside from the game in Monaco, it was Nani’s first real start for us this season. I thought he did very well."

Park started very brightly and was unlucky not to be awarded at least one penalty in the first half.

"I think there was a stonewall penalty when Ji was in a clear scoring position," the manager said. "He’s gone by the defender and the player’s not got anywhere near the ball. He’s brought him down and I think that’s a penalty."