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Alex Ferguson believes Park Ji-sung is fast becoming Manchester United's man for the big occasion after the South Korean scored the decisive goal in the 2-1 win over Liverpool.

Park's second-half header at Old Trafford on Sunday sent United back to the top of the Premier League and emphasised the 29-year-old's priceless ability to produce his best when the stakes are highest.

In the last 12 months, Park has been transformed from a useful squad player to a key member of Ferguson's team in United's biggest matches and he has repaid his manager's faith every time.

Last term he scored a vital goal in United's Champions League semi-final second-leg win at Arsenal, then became the first Asian to play in a Champions League final later that season.

This year he has scored only three goals but all have been vital. He opened his account for the season in the 3-1 win at title rivals Arsenal and also scored in United's 4-0 Champions League last-16 win over AC Milan.

The Milan match showcased Park's versatility as he man-marked Andrea Pirlo, but he played a more advanced role just behind Wayne Rooney against Liverpool and responded with a goal.

"He's one of these players that we can give him roles to play because of his intelligence and discipline and we found another role for him," said Ferguson.

"It was slightly different from the Milan games but, nonetheless, really important for us. He's such a bright little lad that his courage got him the goal."

United are now two points clear of second-placed Arsenal and four ahead of Chelsea.

For Ferguson, the presence of fit-again defensive pair Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic has convinced him United can record a record 19th league title.

"I don't think anyone's getting away," said Ferguson of the challenge posed by Chelsea and Arsenal.

"We are all opening doors. But I think that with Vidic and Ferdinand looking fresh -- they have been out for most of the season -- I think those two back to that form gives us a great hope and opportunity.

"It's at the stage of the season where winning is the name of the game. We have been very consistent in the last two or three months.

"It's always difficult to lose a goal and come back and win, it's a great quality that Manchester United have and it was that quality that won us the game again."

While Ferguson closes in on an unprecedented fourth successive league title, Liverpool's dismal season took another turn for the worse.

The Reds are in severe danger of missing out on a top-four finish but manager Rafael Benitez was more concerned with berating United winger Antonio Valencia for diving to win his side's first-half penalty.

Valencia, tugged back by Javier Mascherano, won the penalty that was converted, at the second attempt, by Wayne Rooney.

The penalty decision also saw Benitez and Ferguson engage in a furious verbal battle on the touchline as the United manager claimed Mascherano should have been shown an automatic red card.

"One situation changed everything," Benitez said. "I've seen three replays and the last one was very suspicious, seeing the replay and how he fell to the ground.

"From the bench, I was asking the people who were below with the TV and they said it was a penalty. Did Valencia dive? Yes, I think so. It's not clear. There is maybe a contact but the way he fell down -- strange."

Benitez was asked whether Ferguson's comments late last week that Liverpool receive preferential treatment from the FA's disciplinary arm could have had a bearing on the performance of referee Howard Webb.

"I'm really surprised when you talk about things like this," said Benitez. "We know the influence of Sir Alex on everything but I think Howard Webb is still a very good ref.

"When you have different opinions, you have to express your opinion."

AFP