Tevez has found his Manchester United appearances restricted since the arrival of record signing Dimitar Berbatov at Old Trafford.

But Blackburn Rovers felt the full force of Tevez's frustration on Wednesday night, the South American scoring at least three times - with a fourth still yet to be definitively credited to the Argentina forward - in an amazing 5-3 win which saw the Red Devils into this season's Carling Cup semi-finals.

And although the match's opening goal looked as though it may have gone in off Rovers player Aaron Mokoena, both manager and player were claiming it as a Tevez strike.

"Carlos' commitment was absolutely brilliant," said Ferguson.

"It was a marvellous effort to get four goals.

"It definitely makes my job more difficult, although it also makes the club stronger."

Tevez was equally delighted with the outcome and hopes it will lead to more regular action.

"I am very proud to score four goals," said Tevez.

"It is the first time I have done it in my career and it is better because it came for Manchester United.

"I have not played very often, so I was looking forward to the game and I am happy with my performance."

Debate was still raging over Tevez's opener long after the final whistle.

Fortunately, the outcome of his far-post duel with Mokoena cannot cost Tevez a hat-trick as he netted from the penalty spot just after the break and thrashed home another at the end.

In between, Tevez finished off the move of the match, started by Ryan Giggs' majestic back-heel and involving a series of passes between Anderson and his fellow South American, who was presented with a tap-in.

Nani also got his name on the scoresheet even though United, just as they did against Hull City a month ago, lost their concentration at 4-1.

They allowed their opponents to score twice, through a Benni McCarthy second and one from Matt Derbyshire, and were, at one stage, fearing an equaliser.

"It was quite unbelievable at the end," said Sir Alex Ferguson.

"We created a lot of chances and we got a bit careless because we don't want to be losing goals like that. But overall I am quite pleased."