United midfielder Darren Fletcher praised the way United were able to “grind out” the win over Liverpool, which took them back to the top of the Premier League.

Fernando Torres gave the visitors a fifth-minute lead but United fought back with goals from Wayne Rooney and Ji-Sung Park to snatch all three points.

It was a match of few chances but United made the most of theirs with clinical finishing.

However, the much-hearlded Torres fluffed two half chances after finding space in the box but failed to even test United keeper Edwin van der Sar. 

Fletcher hailed the grit and determination of United as they try to close in on a record fourth successive championship.

“The team which puts the most consistent run together will probably be champions, and we are making a good fist of it,” Fletcher said.

“It was a difficult game, with not much football played..

“You want to win the title with flowing football, but sometimes you have to grind out results and show character - that is what we did.”

The Scottish international maintained referee Howard Webb was right to give a penalty.

“I definitely thought it was a foul,” said Fletcher.

“He was pulling Valencia and the contact with his legs was right on the edge of the box.

“The keeper saved it, but Wazza (Rooney) is so composed that he was able to tap it in afterwards.”