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Eagles flying high

Chris Eagles admits he never wanted Wednesday night to end, after the 21-year-old made his first league start for United in the Reds' 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge.

His selection in Sir Alex's starting XI ended a six-year wait in which the midfielder has been knocking on the first-team door for some time.

"I've been waiting for this since I became a professional at 17," Eagles said. "To make my full 90-minute debut at Stamford Bridge and play well was unbelievable.

"The lads have been brilliant. Sometimes it can be hard for a young player coming into a senior team, particularly in these circumstances when they've got an FA Cup final coming up. But they've been brilliant – the whole day's been brilliant – and I never wanted it to end.

"You learn stuff off people like Scholesy, Giggsy, Ronaldo and Rooney every day in training. And you learn from playing against the likes of Joe Cole and John Terry. The whole day's been special."

Eagles admits the experience was enhanced by the appearance of Joe Cole on the pitch at half-time. London-born Eagles joined Manchester United as a 13-year-old but has fond memories of watching Cole as a teenager.

"I've always looked up to Cole, ever since I was a youngster," Eagles revealed. "We both used to play for London Schools. I was nine when he was 15 or 16 and I used to watch him. He was a good player then.

"I've always admired him so when he came on it was another proud moment for me because he's always been one of my idols."

The pair exchanged shirts after the game and Eagles said he hopes Cole "will save mine, like I'll save his".

Eagles drew praise from the United manager for his part in Wednesday's draw. Sir Alex said the 21-year-old was one of the team's best performers and emphasised his impressive work-rate.

"I think Chris has shown he's got the temperament to play. He does work very hard at his game and he's one of the lads who goes out and practises in the afternoons. You get the rewards of that and there are great dividends. The dividend for Chris Eagles tonight is that I wouldn't be afraid to play him any time."