Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has described his side's 4-3 win at Reading in the Premier League on Saturday as "agony" to watch.

All seven of the game's goals were scored in a remarkable opening 45 minutes at the Madejski Stadium.

Despite United's suspect defensive display, Ferguson's team have extended their lead at the top of the table following Manchester City's 1-1 draw with Everton.

"It was agony," said Ferguson. "The worst defending of this season and we needed to do something about it.

"We're needing to rescue the situation all the time. Fortunately we have players who can do that.

"If we defend like that against Manchester City, I might need to play myself."

United take on their local rivals in the league at the Etihad Stadium next Sunday.