The Red Devils chief conceded winning big competitions in successive years is "terribly difficult".

He praised Harrington for the way he retained his title at Royal Birkdale - and challenged his players to show similar drive and ambition in the month's ahead.

On winning major events back to back, Ferguson said: "It is terribly difficult.

"Harrington, however, was so cool and showed to me he had the bottle. When he needed to perform in the last six holes, he had four birdies.

"His second shot at the 17th, right on the pin... unbelievable. He thoroughly deserved the victory."