United won the shoot-out 4-1 with Anderson striking the decisive spot kick after substitutes Jamie O'Hara and David Bentley had both missed for Spurs.

Despite fielding a weakened team, Premier League leaders United claimed their second piece of silverware of the season, having won FIFA's Club World Cup Japan, and are still chasing five trophies this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo had gone closest to providing a winner in normal time when his shot hit the inside of the post in stoppage time but chances were few and far between.

United, with Dimitar Berbatov and Wayne Rooney not even in the squad, were the better side early in the match.

Ronaldo fired a free kick over from 25 metres and Paul Scholes launched a superb long pass for Danny Welbeck but the young striker was closed down. Nani then tested Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes with a low shot.

Tottenham had a hint of an opening when United's reserve keeper Ben Foster got caught out of position but Rio Ferdinand came to his rescue to clear Aaron Lennon's cross.

Ferdinand then showed his class at the other end, looping a shot just over the crossbar.

The second half fizzled out. Ronaldo was booked for diving as the game meandered towards extra time.

A late flurry saw Foster save well from Lennon before Ronaldo cut in and sent a shot against the inside of the post, with Carlos Tevez unable to convert the rebound.

Tottenham won the trophy last season against Chelsea in extra time but they failed to muster many attacks in the 30 extra minutes and there was a sense of inevitability about United's victory on penalties.