Robin van Persie is excited about the developing partnership with Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Both players were on the scoresheet in victory over Stoke City.

"We are definitely getting more of an understanding," Van Persie said. "We like to play together and work well together.

"It is only the second or third time we have played in this formation but offensively and defensively, we help each other out."

Danny Welbeck is also capable of making a significant contribution and with Javier Hernandez, Nani, Shinji Kagawa and Ashley Young also offering a threat, it is little wonder Ferguson currently views attack as the best form of defence.

"We do look exciting going forward," added the Dutchman. "We can score all sorts of goals from many different angles.

"That is a good sign and should be a real weapon for us as the season goes on."