John O'Shea is calling for United to build on a first opening-day win for three seasons when the Reds travel to Turf Moor in midweek.

After last week's internationals, the domestic games now come thick and fast, giving the Reds and the rivals a chance to rack up the points.

"You don't want to be playing catch-up, even after only one game," O'Shea told MUTV. "Other teams are looking stronger now so it's important we stamp our authority early on in the season."

"We've opened the last two league seasons with draws so we're happy to have picked up three points against Birmingham. Now we move on with a tough game at Burnley."

O'Shea was an authority figure for United on Sunday, as he led the team out in the absence of Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand. Although he later handed the armband to half-time sub Ryan Giggs, the captaincy was still an honour for John.

"It was very special. I've done it in friendlies which is also nice, but to do it in a league game when it really matters, for the manager to have that faith in me, is something special and something I'll always cherish," said O'Shea.

The Irishman was the most experienced member of United's back four, but he had no qualms about the relative