Fergie happy to see off Blues

United boss pleased with side after narrow win

Last updated: 16th August 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Fergie happy to see off Blues

Ferguson: Satisfied

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Sir Alex Ferguson said he was satisfied with Manchester United's 1-0 victory over Birmingham and tipped Michael Owen to play a big part in the coming campaign.

United dominated for large spells at Old Trafford on Sunday but, after taking a 34th-minute lead through Wayne Rooney, they were unable to extend their advantage and looked vulnerable from time to time on the counter-attack.

However, Ferguson said he was happy with his side's performance and believes the visitors' defensive approach made it difficult to excel.

"I think it's typical of the start of the season with teams like Birmingham," he told Sky Sports.

"They've got a point to prove. They've just come out of the Championship, they're desperate to stay in the Premier Division and they gave a very determined performance with everyone behind the ball.

"It's very difficult to break down, and that was noticeable with the amount of shots we had blocked inside the box.

"I think we did enough. We had clear possession of the ball, we had some good opportunities, played some good football at times and, generally, I'm satisfied with the result."

Owen opportunities

Michael Owen made his first league appearance for United as a 74th-minute substitute and nearly opened his account when he went through on goal in injury time.

And, while he was expected to be used as an impact player from the bench, Ferguson has suggested that the 29-year-old is likely to challenge Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov for a first-team spot as the season progresses.

"He'll get his goals, no question," he said.

"I started with Wayne and Dimitar today simply because they've been at the club last season - they've been regular players and you've got to give them their opportunity.

"Michael will get his chances, there's no question about that, and there's plenty of games coming up in the next few weeks to give him his opportunities - and he'll take them."

Rooney, who set up Owen the late chance, also backed his new team-mate for success.

"All the fans are delighted he's here playing," he told Sky Sports.

"You saw his movement when he came on. He'll take chances."