Macheda does it again as United edge out Black Cats

Federico Macheda's incredible start to his Manchester United career continued on Saturday afternoon. The young forward came off the bench with 15 minutes left and bagged the winning goal as United bagged a hard-fought 2-1 win over relegation-threatened Sunderland. The win sent United back to the top of the Premier League following the Scousers' 3-0 win over Blackburn.

This win could prove crucial at the end of the season.

After the disappointment of the Porto game on Tuesday night, United looked set to draw this game at the Stadium of Light which would have left Liverpool at the top of the tree and dragged Chelsea right back into contention.

However, teenage sensation Macheda was again the hero as he came off the bench and bagged the winning goal within a minute.

United were again below-par with the squad showing signs of tiredness. After his horror show against Porto, it was great to see Paul Scholes break the deadlock. The veteran midfielder met Wayne Rooney's cross with a fine header to the delight of the travelling masses.

However, Sunderland responded strongly and created a host of excellent opportunities.  They drew level ten minutes after the interval as Kenwyne Jones took advantage of a Ben Foster fumble to poke home from close range.

Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to make changes ahead of Wednesday's trip to Portugal started to look regrettable and the Scotsman threw on Cristiano Ronaldo with twenty minutes left. However, it was 17-year-old Macheda - introduced five minutes later - who was again to be the hero.

The Italian met Michael Carrick's free-kick with a left-footed flick that beat Craig Gordon and secured a crucial three points for the champions. The boy really is something special.

Bring on Porto.

Full Time - Sunderland 1-2 Manchester United
Attendance - 45,408