Peak practice for Ferguson

Wes Brown made a strong case for inclusion if Eriksson decides to select four centre halves in his squad. His defensive play was immaculate, drawing approval from his defensive partner Laurent Blanc, whose own duties were executed flawlessly. 'I have been reading about the possibles and probables for the World Cup but I have no doubt Wes should go,' said his admiring team-mate Solskjaer. 'All he needs to do is keep playing like he did today.

'He has two games against Leverkusen coming up to show his worth. He has the right temperament and attitude for the big games.'

Certainly Brown appeared greatly more assured than Chelsea's John Terry, who would have been considforered by Eriksson but for his pending court case, and he was the first to admit Chelsea had been overwhelmed.

'They were different class today, keeping the ball for fun and taking the mickey out of us,' said the Chelsea central defender. 'It was embarrassing at times and I couldn't wait for the final whistle to be honest with you.'

It is not often you will hear words of such abject submission from a man who is a renowned battler, but Van Nistelrooy had given both Terry and Marcel Desailly a wretched afternoon.

The Dutchman, who has quick feet such a tall man, scored the vital second just before half-time, the one Ferguson described as 'the killer goal'.

The way United have overcome the loss of David Beckham and Roy Keane has been enlightening and is a tribute to the excellence of Nicky Butt and the adaptability of Solskjaer.

Ferguson always emphasises the team ethic above individualism, at least in his public utterances.

'Sometimes the loss of players is overplayed,' he said. 'Lads like Nicky Butt get overlooked too easily. You saw the job he did today.

'Phil Neville also came on to play down the left side of midfield and did a marvellous job. The spirit of the team tells me we will handle things without Roy and David.'

They certainly handled Chelsea without needing to extend themselves and yesterday the players

were at the club's training ground at Carrington beginning to plan their strategy for Leverkusen.

The Germans, for sure, will not capitulate the way Chelsea did, but if United can keep possession like they did in the second half in this game, then they can begin to dream of Hampden.

?United have earmarked Derby County goalkeeper Mart Poom as the man to take over from Fabien Barthez if he leaves in the summer.

Sportsmail revealed in October that Barthez had told friends he was yearning for a return to France at the end of the season. Ferguson enquired about Poom before he signed current No.2 Roy Carroll and has kept tabs on him, despite the Estonian failing to hold down a regular first-team place at relegated County.

Meanwhile, United hope to tie up David Beckham's prolonged contract talks this week.

Old Trafford chief executive Peter Kenyon said: 'I am convinced that the contract will be in place before he flies off for Japan. It could even be put to bed within a week or so.'