Reading boss Brian McDermott says Manchester United's never-say-die attitude comes from Sir Alex Ferguson.

McDermott highlighted the United manager's fierce will to win that has brought him so much success since he took charge in 1986.

The 51-year-old said: "It comes from the manager and the ingredients he puts into the mix. He has an incredible will to win and you can see that from the way he is on the touchline. Whatever he puts into the game, they never feel like they are beaten. We're trying to get that too. Luckily we have had that over the last few years. We've kept going in the last few games in particular.

"Ferguson's the figure-head of that club. From when he took over to where they are now is incredible. He's a top guy too and I have a lot of time for him."