While United might be off the pace in the Coca-Cola Championship, Carney, 24, is convinced this victory can kick-start their season.

Next up are improving QPR on Saturday and he said: "We can take confidence from this win.

"If we can string four or five victories together then you should see us in the play-offs. That is where we belong."

Carney got the all-important goal in the 42nd minute when he drilled a low shot beyond Ali Al Habsi into the corner following a glorious through-ball from Stephen Quinn.

He savoured the moment following a rollercoaster ride in a career that has taken him to some humble places in England and Scotland before returning home.

After leaving Everton where he played in the same youth team as Wayne Rooney, he arrived at Bramall Lane via Oldham, Halifax, Hamilton and Sydney.

Carney's good form back in Australia brought international recognition and renewed self-belief he could cut it in England.

He joined United in the summer and returned to the side at the Reebok Stadium after being rested over the festive period.

Carney said: "I was happy to get off the mark as it was my first game in the FA Cup.

"I made a few runs in the first half but I did not get picked out. Then Stephen played the ball through and I got on the end of it.

"It was an end-to-end game and to win against a club like Bolton is a big relief."

It was Bolton's first home defeat under Megson after he made seven changes to his side.

Nicolas Anelka, who has been strongly linked with a move to Chelsea, did not feature while Kevin Davies was suspended.

Without these two key attackers Bolton lacked a cutting edge with El-Hadji Diouf and Daniel Braaten both left frustrated. Senegal striker Diouf and Ivory Coast defender Abdoulaye Meite were leaving today to prepare for the African Nations Cup.

Megson admits their absence will hit Bolton hard as he is not convinced they have enough decent back-up following the defeat by United.

He said: "It is a loss as they are both good players. But we knew this was coming.

"In terms of contingency plans and making sure we are in the right shape knowing they are going, I am not sure we are. However that is something we have to cope with.

"The disappointment is that a number of players did not take the chance given to them.

"They are highly-paid Premiership squad members, who did not rise to the challenge.

"There was an assumption from one or two there will be another chance and you can't do that."