Sir Alex Ferguson has lavished praise on Ruud van Nistelrooy for bouncing back from heavy criticism and serious injuries to find his form and score in every competitive game this season.

The Dutchman netted for the Red Devils against Debrecen in the Champions League qualifying first leg as well as on the opening day of the season with Everton.

Van Nistelrooy was the match-winner in today's bout with Aston Villa, with his 66th minute goal the difference between the two sides.

"Ruud's season last season was fragmented and it was partly our fault in bringing him back too early," said Ferguson. "His fitness has been fantastic in pre-season and we are getting the benefit of that.

"There are goals here - I can smell them. We had some chances and their defence and keeper had fantastic games. One-nil at home early in the season against a team who made it difficult for us is fine. They kept us from getting any real momentum going."

Regarding today's win, he added: "In the second half we stepped up the speed of the game and had some good chances. You are hoping a goal comes and that someone takes a chance."

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