While Manchester United has marched into a 12 point lead in the Premier League title race, many of the plaudits have gone to Robin Van Persie.

The Dutchman has certainly proved to be the difference for Alex Ferguson’s side since his summer arrival particularly in the first half of the season when he masked defensive frailties which saw the Reds concede 28 goals in their first 20 games.

Yet, somewhat under the radar, United’s defence has tightened up and has been the key cog behind the increased gap in the table.

In the last seven league matches, only three goals have been conceded, including clean sheets in the last two fixtures against Everton and QPR.

Vidic

It is no coincidence that the return of club captain Nemanja Vidic has been of enormous significance. In his 12 matches this season, United have only conceded 10 times, and during the recent run of clean sheets and defensive resilience, the Serbian has partnered the ever-present Rio Ferdinand on four occasions as he continues to work his way back to fitness after a knee injury kept him out from September to December.

Jonny Evans has also been a strong deputy, playing three times alongside Ferdinand and helping to keep a clean sheet in each match, while David De Gea's contribution was obscured by the media furore over his error at Tottenham.

During the recent league run, Ferguson has also tended not to start with more than two of Van Persie,  Danny Welbeck, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez at a time – with the exception of the 2 – 1 home win over Southampton, when the Saints recorded 10 shots on target.

Phil Jones’ return has also given Ferguson the extra option of fielding him as a defensive shield in midfield as he did to great effect against Everton and Real Madrid in the Champions League. Ferguson had picked three natural forwards in Welbeck, Van Persie and Rooney against the Spanish side but Jones gave that defensive balance alongside Carrick.