Manchester United defeated Reading 2-1 at Old Trafford last night in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Reading keeper Adam Federici produced a decent display and denied Ashley Young and Danny Welbeck before United really got playing.

United lost in-form Phil Jones through injury and his replacement winger Nani played a crucial part in the victory. The Portuguese international had three efforts that went close, including an effort that hit the post.

He did finally open the scoring on 69 minutes though. Winger Antonio Valencia found Nani with a superb pass and he kept his cool to fire past Federici. United doubled their lead just three minutes later.

Nani was again involved firing in a cross for Mexican striker Javier Hernandez to head past Federici. The victory looked to have been confirmed, but Reading made it a nervous finish, as Jobi McAnuff found the net with nine minutes left on the clock.

However, the away side couldn’t break through the United defence and the home side could now face a quarter-final with rivals Chelsea, who still have to play their fifth round tie with Middlesbrough.

Recovery

Nani has been heavily criticised in recent times for his perceived lack of effort and inconsistency. His attitude and work effort has been questioned.

He is likely to leave Manchester United in the summer, but his short cameo last night showed that he still has the ability to produce match-winning performances. Maybe Nani still has something to offer the Red Devils. Unfortunate it looks like he won’t get the chance.

Priorities

The FA Cup really isn’t Reading or Manchester United’s priority this season. United however are still chasing the treble of Premier League title, Champions League and FA Cup. Reading can now concentrate on their fight for survival.

Can Manchester United do the treble this season?