Ryan Giggs has urged his Manchester United team-mates not to beat themselves up over last night's shock defeat at Wigan Athletic.

The Red Devils produced another of those lacklustre performances that have pockmarked their season at the DW Stadium.

It condemned them to a 1-0 defeat that enabled Manchester City to cut into their lead at the top of the Premier League, reducing it to five points with five games remaining.

We have had poor performances throughout the season and results but we have always bounced back.
Ryan Giggs, Manchester United midfielder

The middle of which is that eagerly-awaited derby confrontation at the Etihad Stadium on 30 April, which suddenly has meaning again beyond whether United will win their 20th title on that day.

However, this is where Giggs intends United's extra experience to show. And, just like after defeats to City and FC Basel, the veteran wants the response this time around to be a positive one.

"We don't have to get too down," he said. "It has happened quite a bit this season where there has been the odd display where we just haven't performed. The main thing is that we have recovered from it. That is what we have to do again."

Six points the target
United's task is made slightly easier by the fact their next two opponents, Aston Villa and Everton, must both be faced at Old Trafford, where they have terrible records.

Villa are additionally weakened by a chronic injury list and have been searching for results to keep them out of relegation trouble.

"It is important that we get six points from the next two games," said Giggs. "We are at Old Trafford, we are at home. We will be looking to win both games and put the pressure on.

"We have had poor performances throughout the season and results but we have always bounced back."