Gibson hails group mentality

Darron Gibson is sure Manchester United's bid for glory will never be derailed by disgruntled players venting their frustrations in public.

Although Manchester City have made rapid strides under Roberto Mancini this term, and at the very least look like cementing a place in next season's Champions League, their unity has not been helped by a series of negative comments from men not happy with their lot.

Micah Richards was the latest to confirm he would seek a move if he found himself left out of the City side too often, whilst Emmanuel Adebayor has not been scared to make very similar claims.

Yet this does not happen at United, even though Sir Alex Ferguson's rotation policy has been in operation far longer.

Gibson was one of those who suffered on Sunday, when he remained on the bench for Sunday's FA Cup tie with Liverpool.

But the Republic of Ireland international feels it is part of being at a club where the challenge is to win trophies, rather than merely looking after number one.

"The spirit is so good within the squad and everyone is so tight together, no-one wants to upset it," said Gibson.

"This is a great club and we have a great manager, who knows what he is doing and how to keep players happy.

"We have a good group at the minute. Hopefully it will stay like that for a long time."

At 23, Gibson still has time on his side.

Ferguson showed the faith he has in the midfielder's skills by surprisingly selecting him to start last season's Champions League quarter-final decider with Bayern Munich.

Although United went out, Gibson was part of arguably their best performance on the season, lashing home the third-minute opener that started a devastating first half for Ferguson's men.

Injuries have restricted the Derry-born star's contribution this term.

His appearance against Stoke last week was only his eighth of the season.

However, having been involved in all four Premier League fixtures over the Christmas period, Gibson has given himself something to build on.

"Sir Alex Ferguson is probably the greatest manager ever, so it does give you confidence when he talks to you and tells you that you can win him a game," he said.

"He showed a lot of faith to put me in against Bayern Munich.

"But when you are a younger player, you have to wait for your chance. When it comes along you have to take it.

"There is a little extra pressure because you have to prove you can do as well, if not better, than the players who are in every week.

"Luckily for me this season, when I came back from injuries, there were a few others, who were out as well.

"I got my chance, have kicked on from there and played a few games since."