Darron Gibson is "buzzing" after starting Manchester United's last two games.

The Irish international was a scoring substitute in the Reds' FA Cup win at Southampton on Sunday, and started Wednesday night's Carling Cup defeat at Derby County.

"I must admit I'm buzzing at the minute," the midfielder told the Derry Journal. "The manager seems to be keeping his faith in me and I intend to do everything I can to stay in his plans. I hope I can continue to make an impression.

"I'm getting a lot more chances this season and the longer we stay in the FA Cup - and if we can reach the Carling Cup Final - then the more chances of first team action I'm going to get. And as the season goes on I might even get more opportunities in the league, which is what I'm aiming for."

Gibson's strike at St Mary's was his first senior goal for the Reds, and he puts the effort down to the extra hard yards he's put in at Carrington this season.

"I've been working extremely hard in training and have been trying to improve on my finishing," he said. "I'm trying to get into the box a lot more often.

"This was my first time playing in the FA Cup with Manchester United and it was totally different. It was the biggest game of my career to date. I really enjoyed the experience, especially getting on the scoresheet."