VDS Shocked by Arsenal

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar says he did not expect Arsenal to cope so well following the exit of former striker Thierry Henry.

"It would have been obvious to think they would have a poor season without Henry," he told BBC's Football Focus ahead of Saturday's game.

"But boss Arsene Wenger has an eye for talent. He motivates and educates them. They have done remarkably well and not many would have expected that. Arsenal are playing well and winning."

Dutchman Van der Sar remains cautious about his team's prospects despite going well in the league, Champions League and Carling Cup.

"It all depends on injuries - we had lots of problems with that towards the end of last season," he said. "This season we have a bigger and stronger squad. The ingredients for having a great season are there, yet success is still so far away. If we are still doing well in all competitions during March or April then I'm sure it will be fair to ask me about our prospects then - but that is many months from now."