Saha's debt to Fergie

Louis Saha has offered his gratitude to Man United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

French striker Saha has endured an injury-hit two years at Old Trafford following his big-money move from Fulham.

After an encouraging start to his United career, Saha was halted by fitness troubles, but is now back at peak fitness.

His reward arrived when he was selected ahead of Ruud van Nistelrooy for the club's Carling Cup final victory over Wigan Athletic late last month.

Saha also kept out the Dutchman for the Premiership win over The Latics on Monday, although the duo could be paired up for Sunday's clash with Newcastle United.

With Saha now enjoying playing football again, he explained the role Ferguson played in keeping his spirits up while he was injured.

"Throughout my problems, United in general and Sir Alex Ferguson in particular have been wonderful in the way they have stood by me," Saha told The Sunday Mirror.

"The boss has always had words of encouragement to offer me at the most important times.

"He picked me up when I was feeling down. He helped me get through the blackest period of my career.

"There were times when I wondered what the future held for me, whether I would ever get the chance to prove myself at United.

"But thanks to Sir Alex I am now a much stronger person and I think I will become a better player because of that strength.

"It has been an emotional time for me, getting myself fit, winning my first cup final and being called into the French squad again.

"After the year I had, I feel I deserved some good luck. Getting picked for the League Cup Final, scoring a goal and winning a medal for the first time in my career have been the best things I could have wished for."