Ferguson: A fitting tribute

Sir Alex Ferguson said the Manchester United fans provided the most fitting tribute to George Best during the Carling Cup win over West Brom.

The Red Devils romped to a 3-1 win but the proceedings on the pitch were largely overshadowed by emotional displays of affection from the Old Trafford crowd towards the late Northern Irishman.

The pre-match minute's silence and musical tributes were well received and Best's son Calum had tears in his eyes as the fans showed their appreciation for one of their favourite sons.

"It was a good night for us," enthused Ferguson to Sky Sports News. "Everything went well.

"The pre-match tribute to George, I thought was fantastic.

"I think we had a good performance, with very good movement in the match and played some excellent football. Two goals were very well made and well taken.

"We've progressed into the quarter finals, and got some young players experience, which is important, so it was a good night for Manchester United overall.

"I'm delighted to see Louis Saha tonight, we know his ability, he's a fantastic striker and we hope he steers clear of injury. He's been unlucky when training with France and playing for them, I think they could have done better for him. He's only had one injury with us but he's been looking great in training.

"We're going to need every player I can get in December, we've got ten games now we're in the next round of the cup.

"We all know about his [Giuseppe Rossi's] potential, he's a wonderful young player. He's only 18 and so sharp with his movement and vision. I'm very pleased with him.

"We're in the last eight and that sums it up. The Carling Cup, now it allows the European teams in later, does give you the opportunity to get to the later stages. We've used the young players into the bargain, we're in the quarter finals and there's some good teams left so we'll have a go.

"I think it was great. The supporters throughout tonight provided the most fitting tribute they could have done."