Sir Alex Ferguson hailed the efforts of his Mr Versatile John O'Shea after the Irishman put Manchester United in touching distance of another Champions League final.
O'Shea's smartly-taken 17th-minute goal ensured United head to the Emirates Stadium for a tense second leg against Arsenal holding a narrow lead, but one achieved without conceding an away goal.
The Waterford-born star makes a habit of popping up with vital contributions and Ferguson felt his effort was worthy of special praise.
"John O'Shea took the goal really well,'' said Ferguson. "He is a great professional. The boy never complains. He is happy to play anywhere.
"He has not always been a number one choice but he produces 30 performances a season and it is a contribution we are grateful for. He has played in both full-back positions, central defence and in midfield. He is so versatile and offers such great value for us.
"He has played in most games this season. At the present moment in time, he would be in the team if we got to the final.''
That it is still an if and not a when for United was mostly due to the efforts of Manuel Almunia, who made four first-class saves in a one-sided encounter.
In addition, Cristiano Ronaldo rattled the crossbar, while Ryan Giggs had a second-half effort ruled out for offside on his 800th United appearance.
"Arsene will be thinking it has been a good day for him,'' reflected Ferguson. "He could have been out of the tie but he is not.
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