We must feed RVP, says Fergie

MANCHESTER United manager Sir Alex Ferguson wants his team to play more to the strengths of new recruit Robin van Persie, he says.

Van Persie appeared as a second–half substitute at the Everton game last night and Ferguson rued the former Arsenal striker's new team–mates not involving him as much as he had wished.

"We played around him (Van Persie) too much, we didn't show enough penetration," said the veteran manager.

Ferguson is waiting for good news on the defensive front after last night's 1–0 setback.

A back four featuring only two recognised defenders – Nemanja Vidic, who had not played since December, and Patrice Evra, whose future has been questioned over the summer – suffered at the hands of a rampant Fellaini.

But Ferguson did not believe a weakened defence had led to United's first opening–fixture loss since 2008. He was concerned more by his team's lack of a cutting edge, especially when he introduced £24m striker Van Persie for the last 22 minutes.

"There were a couple of moments, but I'm not criticising the team. They worked well and played some great football. It's difficult here. You have the crowd influencing the referee all the time and it makes it difficult for you."






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