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Smith makes Sir Alex smile

The comeback from injury of Alan Smith has been a major factor in Manchester United's bid for the treble, according to Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 26-year-old has been in outstanding form since his return after 14 months on the sidelines with a broken leg.

Ferguson told BBC: "He has been absolutely unbelievable. His form in the last three games has been outstanding.

"He has brought a freshness and an infectious enthusiasm which is spreading throughout the team."

The former Leeds United striker was a suprise inclusion in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash on April 10th against AS Roma, an inclusion which resulted in a goal for the returning star.

His performance during that match was followed by outstanding showings against Watford and Sheffield United and Ferguson believes that Smith deserves all the credit he can get for what he has had to endure during his time on the sidelines.

The United boss continued: "When you think of what he has been through, how he has handled it and the way he is approaching his football, he has been first class.

"I cannot speak more highly of him than that."