Federico Macheda couldn’t hide his delight after scoring a dramatic late winner on his debut in United’s thrilling 3-2…

Federico Macheda couldn’t hide his delight after scoring a dramatic late winner on his debut in United’s thrilling 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.

The 17-year-old Italian striker hadn't played for the first-team before, and went from an unknown to the name on everyone's lips on Monday morning.

With the scores level at 2-2 in the 93rd minute, Macheda turned brilliantly inside the box before firing a wonderful shot into the top corner. It doesn't get any more dramatic than that.

“This is the best day of my life and one I have always dreamed of. I really enjoyed it," he said after the win, which keeps United's title charge on track.

Macheda headed straight towards his family in the corner of the stadium to celebrate with his father.

“I ran towards my family,” said the former Lazio youth starlet, who signed for United 18 months ago. “They deserve it as much as me and they are very proud.

"I was surprised to be on the bench, to be honest. I was asked yesterday to go to Italy and join up with the national team [at youth level] but Sir Alex said I had to stay here because I might be on the bench. It was then I knew I had a chance."

But he isn't getting carried away, despite being firmly in the media spotlight after swinging the title race back in United's favour.

“It’s a great day but my life is still the same as before. I want to keep going as I have been doing and just enjoy my football."

Macheda makes his mark

6TH APR 2009

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