Man Utd’s Ferguson heaps praise on ‘magnificent’ Evans and Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand starred in Manchester United's 3-0 win at St James' Park Photo: TSR

Sir Alex Ferguson has praised Manchester United’s Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans for their “magnificent” performance in the Red Devils’ win at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Ferdinand and Evans impressed as the United’s centre-half pairing in a 3-0 victory over Newcastle United on Sunday, with the Northern Irishman netting the visitors’ opener at St James’ Park.

Ferguson has been limited in his defensive options this season, with Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Nemanja Vidić all out injured, although the former Fulham defender is nearing a return.

And the 70-year-old is hoping United can build on their display after keeping their first clean sheet in five games at the Magpies.

“Ferdinand and Evans were magnificent [at Newcastle],” Ferguson told United’s website. “Absolutely brilliant. That kind of form definitely gives you a solid base.

“It gives us a security and enables the midfield players and front players to get on with their jobs. They cleared everything.

“We’ve got to get consistency in the performances and in the results. Once we get that, we’ll get into a rhythm.

“We’ve got the squad to deal with all the games, we’ve got a really good squad. And after the international break, we’ll have Chris Smalling back which will be another addition to our squad which is very important.”