United fans viewed the past, present and possibly the future as both Scholes and Powell were on target in the 4-0 win over Wigan.
Scholes set United on their way to victory with the opener, while Powell gave a snapshot of why Ferguson signed him from Crewe with a fine goal.
Ferguson claims there is "no-one better" than Scholes in making breaks into the box, but he hopes Powell can one day fill those boots.
"Paul over his career has been fantastic at that, you remember him as a midfielder who gets into the box all the time," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "Also over the years we have used him more of a controlling midfielder, but there is no-one better at what he did today.
"Young Powell is a player we hope can fill Paul's boots. He has terrific vision, good temperament, great feet, is quick and has a good strike of the ball.
"He scored a really good goal today, it is a great start for him and we are pleased for him."
