Sir Alex Salutes his side "Back four"

With Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand outstanding in the centre of defence, aided and abetted by full-backs Rafael and Patrice Evra, plus defensive midfielder Michael Carrick, Edwin van der Sar scarcely had a shot to save. Sir Alex Ferguson was highly satisfied to depart White Hart Lane with a valuable point, and quickly heaped praise on the manner with which his side kept Tottenham at arm’s length throughout.

“It was a tough game,” Sir Alex told Sky Sports. “Tottenham are in great form but they really didn’t make many chances against us. We take credit for that. I thought our defenders were particularly good. Defensively we kept our nerve.

“They never really troubled us. Considering the goals they’ve scored, at home particularly, and the performances they’ve shown at home, I think we can take real credit for that.

“I thought we were a bit careless with our use of the ball, particularly in the period just before half-time and in periods of the second half, but it’s a decent point for us. I can’t complain.”

The United manager could easily have taken issue with the dismissal of Rafael for a pair of bookings, but his refusal to discuss referee Mike Dean spoke volumes.

“I don’t need to discuss that,” Sir Alex said. “You can see that for yourself. I’m not going to discuss the referee; it’s out of my bounds now, thank God.”