Sir Alex hails win

line," the boss added in an interview with ESPN. "We blocked shots, had great headers out of the defence, it was a really determined effort by the players and we still played our football into the bargain.

“Fulham had some great chances and our goalkeeper, Rio and Jonny were terrific. We had a few chances ourselves, in the second half in particular – clear chances for Robin van Persie, Chicharito.

"In the first half we hit the woodwork three times. I think we've deserved to win, but it was a smashing game. There were so many chances in the match and some terrific football."

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