Boss Ferguson hails 'best derby'

An ecstatic Gary Neville and Sir Alex Ferguson celebrate United's win

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson labelled his side's thrilling 4-3 win over Manchester City as probably the "best derby of all time".

Michael Owen ended City's 100% league record this season with a goal in stoppage time after United gifted the visitors two of their three goals.

Ferguson said: "The mistakes probably made it the best derby of all time.

"What would you rather have, a 6-0 win or the greatest derby of all time? I would prefer to win 6-0," he added.

A euphoric Ferguson went on to describe Owen as "world class" as his goal sealed the win for United after City had three times pegged back the champions.

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The former Liverpool forward has made just one start in four Premier League games for United since arriving at Old Trafford from Newcastle, but he has already scored twice after coming on as a substitute.

"Michael was only on for something like 17 minutes," said Ferguson.

"He was the best man to be on there when the game is going to be in their penalty box. There is no-one better at taking chances.

"His positional play, first touch and finish were absolutely superb. World class."

Sunday's derby had been preceded by some verbal jousting between Ferguson and his City boss Mark Hughes, and the Scot was quick to remind his managerial counterpart that United had secured local bragging rights - for the time being at least.

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"Sometimes you have a noisy neighbour. You cannot do anything about that. They will always be noisy," said Ferguson.

"You just have to get on with your life, put your television on and turn it up a bit louder.

"Today the players showed their form. That is the best answer of all."