Fergie hails imperious United

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for his side after their 5-0 victory over Wigan.

The Red Devils were rampant at Old Trafford, with Park Ji-Sung and Antonio Valencia getting on the scoresheet alongside Dimitar Berbatov, who hit a hat-trick in the victory over Roberto Martinez's ten-men.

It was United's fourth straight win after losing to Basel in the Champions League, and back-to-back five goal victories after they beat Fulham away on Wednesday, and Ferguson was delighted with the performance.

"As I said some weeks ago, somebody was going to suffer. We're really hitting good form now and there's a real goal threat about us from all departments," he told MUTV.

"If we're top of the league or joint top with City by New Year's Day I'll be happy."

With the Citizens slipping to a draw against West Brom today, United are level on points with their 'noisy neighbours' separated from top spot only by goal difference.

And it was Bulgarian striker Berbatov who was on top form in-front of goal against Ali Al-Habsi, adding to his fine performance against the Cottagers and taking the plaudits of his manager.

"It was the right game for him. I needed his height for set-pieces against us and he's weighed in with a hat-trick. We're really pleased for him and it helps with confidence," added the Scot.

"Dimitar hasn't had the best of starts to the season in terms of selection given the options I have with Welbeck, Rooney, Hernandez, so I'm really happy for him."