Danny Simpson is delighted he chose to stay with Manchester United this season.

The fullback was wanted by Sunderland, but he told the Manchester Evening News: "The gaffer has been here 21 years and he has always said that if there are young lads doing well he will give them a chance.

"Against Kiev last week he proved that and I am glad that we paid him back.

"At the start of the season I knew I was staying here for the season and thought I might get a few games but I never expected to start in the Champions League, and a game which meant something because if we won we went through, so I was delighted."

Carling Cup elimination at the hands of Coventry City came as a shock for United's young players and Simpson added: "The gaffer told us that he was going to keep us here after that because we could be of value to him in the team this season.

"I am glad that me, Gerard (Pique), Jonny (Evans) and Anderson as well have paid him back."