Let's take a look at the facts. In his first season at Manchester United, the striker had to deal with intense competition for his place from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Teddy Sheringham and Andy Cole.
Undaunted, he scored twice on his home debut against Charlton Athletic and never looked back. Those who scoffed at him being Alex Ferguson's choice in the summer were made to eat their words very quickly.
The 18 Premier League goals bagged by the Trinidad & Tobago international not only ensured top-scorer status with the Reds but a share of the Golden Boot, alongside Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Michael Owen.