Sir Alex & Rooney Scoop Awards

Award
By Chris O'Brien
March 5 2005

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has scooped the manager of the month award for February, whilst his summer signing Wayne Rooney takes Premiership player of the month. Will the infamous 'curse' now strike against Crystal Palace?

Sir Alex Ferguson will be celebrating ahead of Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace after being awarded the Premier League manager of the month for a record 15th time. An excellent February has kept the Red Devils in the Premiership race, if only by a thread, as United picked up a clean sweep of domestic wins although suffered upset in the European Champions League at home to Milan.

There is cause for double celebration as teenage sensation Wayne Rooney picks up player of the month. The 19-year-old was on fine form in attack, netting four goals in a superb month for all associated with MUFC.

Fergie will be hoping the 'manager of the month jinx' doesn't strike his Red Devils side as they visit Selhurst Park this weekend. A United win is vital and could close the gap on run-away leaders Chelsea by only three points. Jose Mourinho's side are not in action until Sunday.