Sir Alex Ferguson has the Premier League's top spot in his sights after Manchester United beat Wigan Athletic 1-0.

A Wayne Rooney goal within the first sixty seconds was enough to help United claim all three points at Old Trafford on Wednesday, a win that takes the Red Devils to within two points of current league leaders Liverpool.

With Liverpool not playing local rivals Everton until Monday night, United will assume top spot should they beat Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday.

"You don't mind when you go top, but top is definitely the place to be," Ferguson said after Wednesday's narrow success.

"Hopefully that is where we will be by Saturday night."

Click here to see United's win in pictures

United's win was however marred by the sight of England striker Wayne Rooney hobbling off after only six minutes. The former Everton star is set to be sidelined for approximately three weeks.

Despite the Rooney disappointment, Ferguson was delighted with his players' performance against a particularly spirited Wigan side.

"Wigan are the best side we've seen at Old Trafford this season," the wily Scot decreed.

"I think we should have put the game to bed before half-time, especially with the amount of penetration we had.

"But you have to hand it to Wigan. They were a very resilient side and really made us work. I thought they were outstanding. This was a very good result for us."