Michael Carrick expressed his delight at scoring his first goal for Manchester United in nearly two years – despite being threatened with a fine by his manager!

Sir Alex Ferguson joked after the game that he may fine the former West Ham man for not holding his position in midfield, the 29—year-old instead embarking on a mazy run from inside his own half before driving the ball into the bottom corner.

"The last time I scored a goal from inside my own half was probably when I was playing under-12s!” He said after the game.

"It just seemed to open up for me and I kept on going and going and thought: 'Why not?'. It was great to see it go in."

The goal was United’s second on what was a comfortable afternoon in the capital. It briefly put them top of the table before their near rivals - and title favourites in the football betting - Manchester City, returned to the summit with a gritty 1-0 win over Arsenal.

In truth the Red Devils need players like to Carrick to start chipping in with goals. Their midfield is shorn of Anderson, Darren Fletcher and Tom Cleverly, while Antonio Valencia is still to reach his peak after injury. Wayne Rooney continues to score and is right one of the favourites for those who want to bet on the top scorer  , but has had precious little support with Owen injured and Berbatov horribly out-of-form.

Ferguson is never one to spend in the January transfer window given the inflated prices the month long scramble brings. However, his hand may be forced if he is overcome the Abu Dhabi juggernaut a few miles across town.