Player reviews v Fulham

David De Gea: An assured performance from the Spaniard who was reasonably untroubled for the most part. A number of strong punches clear of the box and a flying dive to deny Clint Dempsey were the stand-out moments.

Rafael: A strong run-out both going forward and in defence. Combinations of great inter-play with Valencia and a couple of vital interceptions capped a good all-round display for the Brazilian.

Jonny Evans: Another outstanding performance from the Northern Ireland international who was named Sky Sports' Man of the Match. Made some important clearances with a host of towering headers and showed great vision to pull the ball back for Rooney to net the winner.

Rio Ferdinand: A typically controlled display from Rio who, alongside Evans, dealt with the threat of Pavel Pogrebnyak with minimal fuss. Substituted in the second period as a precaution after his back complaint flared up.

Patrice Evra: Involved in a lot of United's good play and had a shout for a penalty turned down after his cross collided with the arm of Fulham’s Stephen Kelly. Sent an audacious over-head kick narrowly wide soon after from a corner.

Antonio Valencia: Praised after the game by Sir Alex, the winger maintained his fine recent form with another energetic performance. Provided some decent crosses from the right and was denied a goal by a fine Schwarzer save early in the second half.

Michael Carrick: Quietly went about his job with some tidy passing and showed good composure in a congested midfield. His collision with Danny Murphy