Johan Djourou needed to be alert to clear a low Jordan Henderson cross with Asamoah Gyan ready to pounce, while Phil Bardsley drilled narrowly wide from 20 yards.

BBC: Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland

Rio Ferdinand then had to be alert to deflect a Danny cross narrowly past the post, while at the other end a weak Carlos Tevez shot on 19 minutes was the best United could muster.

BBC: Man Utd 1-2 Zenit St Petersburg

And the Northern Irishman, a contender for player of the year, was alert to pounce on a suicidal cross-field pass by David Elebert to McLaughlin.

BBC: Rangers 1-0 Hamilton