Sir Alex Ferguson pleased with Manchester United's defence against West Ham United

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased with his side for keeping a clean sheet against West Ham United on Wednesday.

Robin van Persie's goal after just 33 seconds proved to be the difference between the two teams at Old Trafford, as the Red Devils retained their one-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Ferguson was happy with the performance of his defenders in their 1-0 victory and had special praise for Rafael and Jonny Evans.

"Jonny Evans and Rafael were fantastic, so there were plus points tonight," he told Sky Sports. "There were opportunities to score more goals, so I am pleased with the result.

"If we keep clean sheets from now until January, then it will give us a good foundation to go all the way (to winning the Premier League title). There were plus points for everyone to see."

Ferguson further praised full-back Rafael for his performance against West Ham.

"He (Rafael) was excellent tonight," he said. "He came here as a young kid and was in the first team at 17 or 18.

"Of course he made a few mistakes because he is such an enthusiastic boy. But he is maturing and learning with that."