Boss satisfied by run-out

At a point in the pre-season preparations when fitness is the be-all and end-all, Saturday's friendly victory at Aberdeen was a satisfying outing for Sir Alex Ferguson.

Goals from Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney gave the Reds victory just 52 days after lifting the Champions League trophy in Moscow, and the Gaffer was pleased to see his charges start on the road back to match fitness at Pittodrie.

"At times it was a bit slow but I think you expect that in your first game," he told MUTV. "I think the important thing is that we put a lot of energy in to get our fitness, which is what you're looking for. Plus we've won a game, which is always a good thing.

"I think they all did alright. There was no great performance but you don't expect great performances, that's the reason for pre-season games. The important thing is they get their fitness, and also to get through without any injuries, which we have done."

United's presence at Pittodrie helped the Dons celebrate the 25th anniversary of the club's finest hour - victory over Real Madrid in the 1983 European Cup Winners' Cup. Sir Alex was at the helm that evening, and he was delighted to be back in Aberdeen for the commemoration.

"It was emotional, it was like the old days there today," he admitted. "You don't think about it until you start approaching the stadium and of course the Gothenburg team were here, and it was a special day for them. These are the lads that actually won it, I was fortunate enough to manage them and they were a great bunch."