Carrick content to fill in

 
Michael Carrick admits he is happy to fill in at the back if required after playing as centre-back against Shanghai Shenhua on the DHL tour.
The midfield star has appeared in the position in the past, during an injury crisis in 2009/2010 and also against Leeds, Wigan and Blackburn last term. It's another string to his bow but he's looking forward to training hard and nailing a regular place again in his preferred role.
"It was quite a comfortable game for me anyway as playing centre-back, I didn't have too much defending to do," he told MUTV.
"I don't mind it. From time to time, it happens, and you have to do a job but it was a bit less serious here than in the past and we got away with it.
"It changes the whole game for you really to being in midfield with everything around you. Sometimes, there's not much to do at the back and then you have to switch on so it's good to have an understanding of the game and, hopefully, it will benefit me.
"It's nice to get home. It's good to come to different countries and different places in the world to see the fans and play our football but it's nice to get home too. There is a lot of work ahead of us for two weeks and soon it'll be the start of the season and then it all goes again."

Everton: No Man Utd bid for Baines

 
Manchester United have yet to make a bid for Leighton Baines, according to ESPN sources, while speculation grows that Sir Alex Ferguson is monitoring Ashley Cole's contract situation at Chelsea.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with Cole ever since ESPN broke the story that the England left-back's future at Stamford Bridge is up in the air with his contract ending next summer and no talks currently taking place to extend it.
However, Baines remains the current focus of attention with several media outlets suggesting a £12 million bid for the defender has now been made by United.
Everton, though, moved to quash speculation that the 27-year-old is the subject of any transfer talks and reiterated that no move from United has been made.
A Goodison Park source told ESPN: "We have not even had a single enquiry from Manchester United. Every week we are asked the same question, but it is the same answer, and we are getting a touch fed up with it. For two months it has been suggested that Manchester United have bid for Baines, but it is simply not true."
Ferguson has revealed that he is looking at a back-up for first-choice left-back Patrice Evra, with Fabio sent out on loan to QPR, and his options appear to be to pay the £15 million that Everton want for Baines, or wait for Cole in 12 months time on a free transfer, if Chelsea fail to tie him to a new contract.

Rafael sad at 'incredible' Oscar's Chelsea switch

Manchester United full-back Rafael has admitted that he feels sad knowing that Brazil team-mate Oscar has joined Chelsea, insisting that the former Internactional star is "an incredible player"

The 20-year-old signed for the Blues on Wednesday in a deal believed to be in the region of £25 million and has already impressed on British shores with his performances at the Olympics.

Playing a starring role as Brazil beat Egypt in their Group C opener, Oscar created two goals in the 3-2 win in Cardiff and Rafael, who opened the scoring in that game, rued the fact that United's Premier League rivals had secured his signature.

Reflecting on Oscar's assist for his goal, Rafael told Fifa.com: "Wow, did you see that? Oscar’s just too much!

"He’s an incredible player. When I see him doing these amazing things it almost makes me feel sad to think that he’s gone to one of our rivals."

The Selecao face Belarus at Old Trafford in their second game on Sunday and Rafael is looking forward to a positive reaction from the home crowd.

"Well, I’ve been talking about that with the rest of the guys in the dressing room, telling them: 'I’m going to play at home and you’re not,'" he said.

"I’ve been there for five years now. I know everyone and I think a lot of the fans who’ll be going to the stadium will know me well. I think the reception I’ll get will be different." 


The former Fluminense youngster will face stiff competition from the likes of Daniel Alves and Maicon for a place in the Brazil squad for the 2014 World Cup although the 22-year-old is confident he can make the cut.

He added: "Playing for Manchester United gives me hope that I’ll be there at the World Cup. I’ve always said that.

"I know I’ll have a lot of competition from some great players like Dani Alves, and I know how important it is to do a job for Mano [Menezes] whenever I’m playing for A Selecao. But I think I can do it."

Twin brother Fabio recently joined QPR on loan and, despite having spent his entire career thus far playing alongside his sibling, Rafael believes the time apart could be a good thing for the duo.

"In one way, it will be good for us to be apart," he continued. "Perhaps it will help us mature a little more.

"It could end up being a good thing for us. It could give us a different outlook on things. After all, we’ve been together for 22 years now. Fabio is happy there and I’m happy here, with the national team at Old Trafford. I’m going to be thinking of him, that’s for sure."

Scholes eyeing Kagawa boost

 

Paul Scholes has admitted Manchester City were the better team last season - but believes Shinji Kagawa will make a difference.

Manchester United were denied the Premier League title by their rivals when Roberto Mancini's men scored twice in injury-time on the last day to win in dramatic fashion.


And Scholes is full of praise for the 23-year-old after seeing him close up on the club's tour of Asia.
"He looks brilliant. I've only been in training with him for a couple of weeks but he's very good technically and you can see the talent he's got already," added Scholes in the Sunday People.
"He's had a couple of great years at Dortmund and I think he has been player of the year in Germany - that tells you he's a top player.
"He will bring goals to the team, whether he's scoring them or making them. He's got great movement and is very clever in the runs he makes.
"It's difficult to say which foot is his best. He's equal with right and left. He's a good lad. He doesn't speak much English yet, but I am sure he will be very popular here."

Scholes - No England approach

 

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has revealed England boss Roy Hodgson did not contact him regarding an international comeback.

Scholes came out of club retirement in January to play a pivotal role for United in the second-half of last season, leading to speculation he could have featured in Hodgson's Euro 2012 squad.
The 37-year-old, who initially retired from international football in 2004, refused to clarify whether he would accept an invitation to play for England but confirmed he had not been approached.
"I wasn't offered the chance," said Scholes. "It was flattering to be talked about. But I wasn't asked, so it means nothing."

Playing on

The one-club man needs to make three more appearances for United to make it 700 for the Red Devils and that's an achievement that is unlikely to be far away after agreeing to play on until 2013.
That tally looked to be beyond Scholes' reach last year when he was busy coaching United's reserves, but the Salford-born player was unable to stay away.
"I was all right for the first couple of months after retiring and didn't really miss anything," he added.
"But once I got back to going to Carrington and coaching the reserves, as well as being with the lads, it was difficult - especially when there were so many injuries to the team.
"If I'd stayed away from the reserves and the club I'd probably have been OK. But every day that I was going in I just wanted to train and be involved.
"The manager didn't have to twist my arm to play this season."

Steele - Chance for Lindegaard

 
Manchester United goalkeeping coach Eric Steele says Anders Lindegaard will have the chance to uproot David de Gea between the sticks over their upcoming pre-season friendlies.


After a shaky start at Old Trafford following his arrival from Atletico Madrid last summer, 21-year-old De Gea has come on leaps and bounds to claim the gloves following Edwin van der Sar's retirement.
Steele believes the youngster has the potential to be United's undisputed No.1 but with the Spaniard representing his country at the Olympics this summer, the coach feels 28-year-old Lindegaard could seize his opportunity.
He told the Sunday People: "We knew it wasn't going to be easy for David following a legend like Edwin van der Sar - and that's why we brought in two keepers to replace him, with Anders joining us too.

Learning curve

"The whole idea was for them to share the season. Unfortunately, Anders got injured in February, but David came in and finished the season so well.
"We knew it was going to be a difficult start for David, but it was a learning curve and he showed mental strength. We feel he should be better for the experience second time around.
"David has great potential and wants to be the No.1 here, but while he plays at the Olympics we've got Barcelona in a friendly, and other games in Oslo and Hannover.
"So Anders will get the chance to stamp his authority in the United goal and stay in the team."
 

Caughtoffside:Man United Launch Final Offer Bid of £27m Plus Player Swap for Brazilian Starlet Lucas Moura

Sir Alex Ferguson makes take it or leave it offer for Old Trafford target.

Lucas Moura continues to frustrate Manchester United’s transfer bid
Manchester United are set to make a final take it or leave it offer for Sao Paulo wonderkid Lucas Moura.
The Red Devils have been locked in negotiations for 19-year-old Lucas for the last two weeks, but are now ready for a final round of make or break talks in a bid to resolve the deadlocked situation.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is desperate to land the all action midfielder – rated as one of the biggest talents in South America – but is refusing to match Sao Paulo’s £30 million price tag.
United are due to speak to Sao Paulo again over the weekend, before lodging their final offer, expected to be £27 million plus substantial add ons.
Out-of-favour midfielder Anderson could also go the other way on loan as part of the dea
l, but Sao Paulo are yet to express an interest.
SOURCE: Metro

Manchester United's Rafael on target in Brazil win

 
Manchester United defender Rafael was on target as Brazil beat Egypt 3-2 in the Olympics.

The tournament favourites stormed to a 3-0 lead thanks to Rafael, Leandro Damiao and Neymar.

Mohamed Aboutrika and Mohamed Salah gave Egypt hope but Brazil held on.

Ryan Giggs slams Senegal tactics

Manchester United star Ryan Giggs has claimed Senegal's Sadio Manu could have been sent off three times for the number of woeful challenges he made in the 1-1 draw with Great Britain.

The British return to the men's football tournament for the first time since 1960 turned flat when Moussa Konate struck eight minutes from time.

But Giggs was left fuming at the robust Senegal approach, which makes Craig Bellamy and Joe Allen doubtful for Sunday's Wembley showdown with United Arab Emirates.

"There were a few naughty challenges in there and a few of our lads are probably struggling for Sunday now," said Giggs.

"There was no consistency.

"Craig Bellamy got booked going in for a header and then there were some ridiculous challenges but you don't even see a yellow card.

"I don't know how many fouls the number 10 had but in a Premier League game he'd probably have been sent off three times."

Manchester United boost in RVP chase as Juventus cool interest

 
Manchester United are in pole position to sign Arsenal's Robin van Persie after Juventus seemingly admitted defeat in their pursuit of the player.

The Reds have openly declared their interest in Van Persie and have had one bid turned down. Manchester City are also chasing him, but are under pressure to offload players before they can buy, much to the irritation of boss Roberto Mancini.

Juventus director Giuseppe Marotta told Sky Sports Italia: "Talk of our real interest in him seems excessive to me.

"Van Persie is a great player but Arsenal do not intend to lose him. And you cannot indulge in a player if the owners don't want (to sell).

"A top player is not only judged by how much he costs.

"It can also mean a player who costs less but on the pitch shows an absolute value."

Peter Schmeichel takes up new Manchester United role

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has been appointed as an official club ambassador.

The 48-year-old Dane, who won five Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the Champions League during a trophy-laden eight-year spell at Old Trafford, will join the likes of Sir
Bobby Charlton, Bryan Robson, Gary Neville and Andrew Cole in helping to promote the Red Devils.

Schmeichel told the club's official website, www.manutd.com: "It's a great honour to be an ambassador for Manchester United.

"I spent many happy years at the club and achieved some of my greatest sporting accolades whilst playing here, so I was delighted to be asked to take up this role.

"I am looking forward to working with United again and sharing my experiences, as well as catching up with some of my former team-mates."

Schmeichel, who won 129 caps for Denmark, became a massive crowd favourite during his playing career with United and skippered the Reds to their famous 1999 Champions League win over Bayern Munich, when Roy Keane was suspended.

Kagawa hails Park

 

A £17million buy from Bundesliga champions Borussia Dortmund, the 23-year-old has taken little time to settle into his new surroundings.
The Japan midfielder got his United career off to a flying start with the only goal in Wednesday's 1-0 pre-season friendly win over Shanghai Shenhua earning him rave reviews from boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
But Kagawa insists he still has a long way to go before he can consider himself as big a star as Park, who ended his seven-year stay at United when left for QPR this summer.

work hard

"This is only the beginning for me," Kagawa told the Daily Mirror. "But Park Ji-sung is the best player Asia has ever produced - there's no doubt about that.
"He played regularly for United for a long time and I can't be sure how long it will take me to establish myself in the team like him. But I will always work hard to do so.
"Watching him play for United motivated me a lot. I began to truly believe Asian players could play in big clubs.
"I was expecting
we could help each other and play together at United. It's a shame that he left.
"But, like Park, I will focus every day on training and do my best to stay here a long time."

Pogba undergoes Juventus medical

 
Juventus have confirmed on their official website that promising youngster Paul Pogba has arrived at the club to undergo a medical ahead of his proposed transfer.

The 19-year-old midfielder left Manchester United earlier this summer after deciding not to extend his expiring contract, and he is now one step closer to completing his long-awaited move to the Serie A champions.

Pogba is seen as one of the biggest talents in his age category, and Juventus have pinpointed the midfielder as an important player for the future.

The France Under-19 star is expected to ink a long-term deal with the Bianconeri once he passes his medical.

Pogba is a product of the Le Havre youth academy, but left the French side for Manchester United in the summer of 2009.

He made his Premier League debut against Stoke City in January 2012, but will now continue his career in the Italian top flight.

Lucas Moura: My future will be decided after Olympics

The Brazilian wonderkid is rumoured to be the subject of a number of failed bids by the Premier League side as Sir Alex Ferguson looks to make the 19-year-old his marquee signing

Moura, who did not feature in Brazil's 3-2 win over Egypt in the Group C opener, is believed to be United's primary transfer target and Sir Alex Ferguson is determined not to miss out on his signature.

Reports have suggested that the Red Devils have had a bid of around £30 million rejected, but are seemingly keen on renewing discussions with Sao Paulo and despite Moura's agent Wagner Ribiero claiming a deal was off, negotiations have been left in his hands.

Moura will be hoping to achieve team success with Brazil ahead of any upcoming move though, and is solely focused on ensuring the Brazilians secure a gold medal at the games.

The 19-year-old told EFE: "I am focusing on my team, Sao Paulo and in Brazil's national team at the moment. I'll decide my future after the Olympics."

With his future at the back of his thoughts entirely, Moura feels privileged to be involved in the tournament and cannot wait for some match action.

He added: "It's already a victory to be here. Now I have to be ready for any situation if Mano Menezes believes I have to play."

gea wants epl title back

The Red Devils appeared to be on their way to a 20th league crown on the final day of the season until a late Sergio Aguero goal eventually helped arch-rivals Manchester City to the title instead.

The 21-year-old wants to put that disappointment behind him by winning Olympic gold with Spain before enjoying success at Old Trafford next season.

"I want to end the season by winning a gold medal to forget about the end of the Premier League campaign. It's incredible how close we came to winning the title. We have to leave that behind us, and focus on the new season," De Gea told Goal.com.

"Even though I didn't win any titles, I have positive feelings about my first season at Manchester United. I have learned a lot and I think I've made a lot of progress.

"Our goals for next year are winning the Premier League and the Champions League. We are obliged to fight for titles. Other teams have strengthened very well, and this season will be more competitive."

The shot-stopper then went on to stress that Spain are comfortable with their role as the front-runners for gold at the Olympics.

"It's normal that people see us as the favourites as Spain have dominated in football," he said. "We like the pressure, because it gets us all charged up.

"We all dream of winning the gold medal, but we realise it will not be easy. There are more teams that can cause an upset than at the Euros.

"People are talking about a final between Spain and Brazil, but there are other genuine rivals as well. There's plenty of competition."

Spain kick off their Olympic campaign on Thursday against Japan, before facing Honduras and Morocco in the group stage.  




 

No more 'moura'

 
Sao Paulo director Adalberto Baptista insists that negotiations with Manchester United for the transfer of Lucas Moura are over.


"There are no negotiations going on. Everybody knows that we got an offer for him, and rejected it. It's also known that Lucas doesn't want to leave. The only person keeping the expectations alive is his agent," Baptista declared to ESPN Brasil.


"The decision is final. There will always be great team going after great players. This mismatch between the European and Brazilian transfer window makes it hard for national clubs, and we have to deal with that."

Manchester United Set £12m Limit For Everton Star

 
Red Devils step up chase for Baines but will not be held to ransom.
Manchester United are ready to step up their pursuit of Everton full-back Leighton Baines but will not be held to ransom by the Merseysiders.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has made signing a left-back a priority this summer and identified England international Baines as the man to replace 31-year-old Frenchman Patrice Evra.
But Ferguson has issued firm instructions to the club’s hierarchy and is not prepared to offer more than £12 million for the former Wigan Athletic star, with his salary set to be capped at £80,000 per week, reports Goal.com.
Everton, however, value Baines at closer to £17 million and are prepared to offer him a new deal in attempt to starve off interest from Old Trafford.
United have considered offering Everton fringe players in exchange for the left-sider but the Toffees were only interested in Ji-Sung Park and Fabio, both of whom have now left Manchester.
At the end of May, Baines admitted the link to United was interesting.
“The United link is flattering. There is no harm in people talking about it because it is a great club. But I’m at a great club as well, a club that I love.
“Would it be hard to turn United down? I’m not letting my focus shift to that while I am in camp [with England]. I’m focused on what I’m doing at the moment. Would it be hard to leave Everton? Yes, obviously. You know what it means.
“I’ve been there for five years myself but also know first-hand what it means to a lot of people so, yes, it would be.”

Sir alex hails kagawa

 

Sir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to Shinji Kagawa as he prepares to give the summer signing a first Manchester United start against Ajax Cape Town on Saturday.

The £17million summer arrival from Borussia Dortmund was restricted to a couple of minutes as a substitute in Durban on Wednesday.
Although it was a disappointment for the supporters who had hoped to see Kagawa in action for the first time, Ferguson claimed because the 23-year-old had arrived for training slightly later that his team-mates, he needed additional work in South Africa this week.
However, with a full house expected at the Green Point Stadium, Ferguson is ready to unleash the Japan midfielder.
And the Red Devils manager admits he has already been impressed by Kagawa during his short time with the club.
"He's been outstanding," said Ferguson."His training performances have been very good. He was three or four days behind everyone else, but he'll play tomorrow."

Professional

Kagawa is already being compared to Park Ji-sung, the crowd favourite from South Korea who has now joined Queens Park Rangers.
Ferguson agrees that they share the same work ethic, while he is also excited about Kagawa's ability after he helped Dortmund win back-to-back titles in Germany.
"There are similarities to Ji-sung Park. They're both disciplined, they work hard," said the Scot.
"Also, they are good professionals and excellent to work with.
"There will be no problems with him settling into the club."What we identified about Kagawa is exactly what I'm seeing now. The difference now is that our players are realising his qualities.
"He's got quick feet, is two-footed and had a good goal ratio with Dortmund. He's doing very well."

Glazers under fan pressure

The Manchester United Supporters Trust have called on the Glazer family to launch a full flotation of the Old Trafford outfit, amid reports that their planned initial public offering (IPO) launch in New York has been shelved.

First in Hong Kong and Singapore, then New York, it has seemed the Glazer family have been looking to raise additional capital through a partial sale of the club.
It is estimated the debt incurred during their leveraged takeover in 2005 has so far seen in excess of £500million taken out of United to pay assorted fees and charges.
And within their prospectus, it was admitted the club's present debt of £423million could hamper them in the transfer market.
Though manager Sir Alex Ferguson launched another passionate defence of the Glazers over the weekend, even moderate United fans are bewildered as to how a club who attract in excess of 70,000 supporters to every home game - and have greater commercial income than most clubs manage in total turnover - can encounter such massive problems trying to sign the best players.
More militant strands of that support, who have maintained a hostile stance towards the Glazers throughout their time associated with the club, are sensing a weakness.With market conditions not improving and reception to a highly complicated IPO - that would bring in two classes of shares and effectively leave the Glazers in total control and require a new Manchester United company to be based in the Cayman Islands - said to be lukewarm, MUST have launched another attack.
"We now call on the Glazers to come back with a full flotation of Manchester United with a single class of full voting shares," MUST chief executive Duncan Drasdo said.
"Should they choose to do this, with no strings attached, we would support such a flotation wholeheartedly and encourage the global fan base of Manchester United to seize such an historic opportunity to secure a meaningful fan ownership stake where the priorities of the club are the same as the fans - not absentee owners."
It seems highly unlikely MUST will get their wish. Indeed, there are also reports that road-shows to publicise the IPO will be held, possibly as soon as Friday.
The absence of United chief executive David Gill from the pre-season tour of South Africa and Asia is an indication that might well happen.
It has even been suggested the club could price the offering at some point in the week commencing August 13.

Cleverley wants gold

 

Tom Cleverley is hoping to play his way into the England squad by winning gold for Team GB at London 2012.

The Manchester United midfielder admits he was heartbroken to be left out of the squad for the European Championship earlier in the summer by new England boss Roy Hodgson.
England crashed out of the competition at the quarter-final stage to Italy on penalties after both sides failed to find the net in two hours of football.
But Cleverley is hoping he can help erase the memories of that spirit-sapping defeat by helping Team GB be crowned Olympic champions
"I was disappointed not to make the England squad for the Euros," Cleverley said. "I had not played a lot of football towards the end of the season, but I felt I could have brought something to the party.Now, hopefully I can impress in the Olympics and Sir Alex Ferguson and Roy Hodgson will be watching.
"Our nation's first sport is football. I expect everybody will be down and feeling a bit sorry for themselves after the way we went out of the Euros, but what a way it would be to bounce back with a gold medal at the Olympics.
"We've got a young team and it would be something for everybody to get excited about again. That's in the back of our minds."
For Cleverley it will feel like going home when Team GB start their rush for gold against Senegal on Thursday night in front of a full house of 75,000 at United's Old Trafford.
And the 22-year-old admits the games have been the talk of the training ground this summer when the United players met up for pre-season training with Team GB skipper Ryan Giggs.
"David de Gea is going with the Spain squad," he added. "He is confident. The Spanish are always confident.
"Anderson was talking about how brilliant it was staying in the Olympic Village and mixing with the other athletes.
"And I've been talking to Ryan Giggs about everything, too. He knows everything there is to know about it all - the details of the itinerary, the arrangements, everything.
"I talked to him a lot in our first couple of days back in pre-season and we were both really excited about it."

Friendly:Shanghai S'hua 0 United 1

The Japanese midfielder scored the only goal of the game as Sir Alex Ferguson's side cruised to victory in their third and final fixture of their pre-season tour abroad

Other

Shinji Kagawa scored his first goal for Manchester United to help the Red Devils secure a 1-0 win over Shanghai Shenhua on Wednesday.


The Japanese midfielder volleyed home in the 68th minute, making no mistake from six yards after Bebe picked out the 23-year-old in space in the penalty area.
Shanghai rarely threatened the United goal but their best chance fell to Joel Griffiths, who was denied by Anders Lindegaard as Sir Alex Ferguson's side ran out comfortable victors despite the narrow scoreline.
Ferguson named a strong side to begin the match, with new signing Kagawa making his second start of pre-season. Nick Powell was included in the initial United XI for the first time since joining from Crewe Alexandra earlier this summer.
Lindegaard was selected in goal while stalwarts Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick anchored the defence, with youngsters Frederic Veseli and Robbie Brady operating at right and left-back respectively.
Shanghai were without former Chelsea duo Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba, who were both rested due to the busy Chinese domestic schedule.
United started the game on the front foot, with Brady causing problems down the left, and the Red Devils will have felt aggrieved not to have been awarded a penalty after the Irishman was brought down in the area.
Ferguson's side should have been ahead in the 23rd minute when Davide Petrucci played a lovely through ball for Powell, who was one-on-one with Shengjiong Qiu after beating the offside trap but could only put his right-footed effort wide of the post.
The Chinese side were struggling to get a hold of the ball and when they did they made too many mistakes in possession.
Anderson and Kagawa nearly capitalised on one of these errors as the Brazilian intercepted a pass and found his team-mate with a pinpoint ball, but the Japanese was crowded out as Shanghai flooded back in numbers before he could shoot.
United were exerting pressure in the home side's half but couldn't produce the final ball they needed to get through the Shanghai back-line, with Brady especially wasteful from good positions.
The home-side almost made them pay for their lack of clinical edge but Griffiths' effort was well saved by Lindegaard, who tipped the ball over the bar after the striker had beaten the challenge of Ferdinand to advance through on goal.
United started the second-half strongly and went agonizingly close to taking the lead through Anderson, whose left-footed shot from outside the area flew inches past the post following good work from Kagawa.
The former Borussia Dortmund star was impressing for the Red Devils, going on to beat his man before sliding a sublime ball to Federico Macheda, who couldn't find the net when well placed in the area.
Ferguson's side continued to press for the opener and Shanghai were grateful to keeper Qiu for keeping them level as he made a great stop to deny Bebe, whose volley seemed destined for the net after he latched onto Antonio Valencia's cross from the right.
The Red Devils' pressure was finally rewarded in the 68th minute when Kagawa scored his first goal for the club, volleying the ball into the top corner, with the help of a slight deflection, following great work down the left wing from Bebe, who expertly found the 23-year-old unmarked in the box.
Substitute Paul Scholes almost doubled the lead minutes later as Marnick Vermijl raided down the right and found the midfielder with an accurate cross but the 37-year-old could only head the ball into the ground and over the bar.
The home side pressed for an equaliser late in the game but it was the visitors who looked more likely to score as Javier Hernandez came close to doubling their lead. The Mexican's shot rattled the crossbar but the miss did not prove costly as United ran out comfortable victors.

 

Fergie revealed Powell struggle

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Manchester United moved quickly to snap up Nick Powell once it became clear that he was a wanted man.

The 18-year-old officially completed a switch to Old Trafford from Crewe Alexandra on 1st July, with the Red Devils having seen off plenty of competition for his signature.
Powell's exploits in League Two last season saw him draw admiring glances from the Premier League's top clubs, with his potential clear for all to see.
United made their move early in an effort to keep him out of the clutches of a rival, with an agreement struck some time before the youngster shone in the fourth tier play-off final.
Ferguson is delighted to have got a deal done, with Powell tipped to be a top-flight star of the future.

Negotiations

He told United's official website: "We thought that if we waited until the play-offs, the secret would be out, so to speak. All the TV cameras would be focused on him and it might alert a few other clubs.
"Mind you, there were already quite a few interested. As well as Arsenal and Chelsea, we knew Manchester City were keeping tabs on him as well, so I phoned (Crewe director of football) Dario Gradi, told him we were keen and we started negotiating.
"We sorted the deal with the chairman and agreed we'd leave it until after the play-off finals.
"It was all in place a good 10 days beforehand. Nick's agent told Nick after the match and then he came up to my house the next day and we got the deal done."

No England retirement for Rio

 
Rio Ferdinand has confirmed he will not formally retire from international football despite being overlooked by England at Euro 2012.
Roy Hodgson controversially selected John Terry instead, despite the Chelsea defender facing a racial abuse charge against Ferdinand's brother Anton - from which he was subsequently acquitted.
While the 33-year-old Manchester United centre-back acknowledges he is unlikely to figure for England again, he will not be making himself unavailable.
"I said that if I was not playing in the summer, I did not see myself playing in the future," he told The Sun.

 

"But I would never retire from international football. I will always be available but my main focus is playing for Manchester United.
"I won't be miffed if I'm not in the England squad because I don't see myself being part of it anymore.
"It's gone, this is a new season, that has happened.
"The Euros is finished, England played the way they did and the tournament has finished."

Olympics

Ferdinand also admits he would have relished the opportunity to represent Team GB as an over-age player in the Olympics.
Stuart Pearce included Ferdinand on the initial long-list of players but eventually opted for Micah Richards, Ryan Giggs and Craig Bellamy as his over-age choices.
Asked if he would like to have been included, Ferdinand replied: "Yeah, of course I would. Definitely, 100 per cent.
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I said that to Tom Cleverley when he was named in the squad.
"Anyone would love to be involved and you would be stupid to say no to the chance."
Although Ferdinand is disappointed to have missed out on international honours this summer, he feels it could prove to be a positive for his career - and Manchester United.
"In past summers I always played with England so this is new for me," he added.
"Hopefully I am refreshed and have no injuries or wear and tear. In terms of my United career it could turn out to be a blessing in disguise

Moura talks set to continue

Lucas Moura's agent says he has been instructed to keep 'negotiating' with Manchester United by the midfielder, but the Brazil international would also be happy to stay at Sao Paulo.

United have been strongly linked with a move for Moura and Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed on Monday that talks have been held regarding a deal for the 19-year-old.
Sao Paulo claim to have rejected a £25.6million offer from United and are holding out for £30m, with Moura's representative Wagner Ribeiro subsequently stating the Premier League club will not increase their bid.
On a busy Tuesday, Ribeiro also confirmed that he had no plans to hold talks with the Red Devils during a trip to England to watch Moura play for Brazil at the Olympics.
However, Ribeiro is keeping the door open regarding a move to Old Trafford after saying Moura is happy for talks with United to continue.
Ribeiro, though, also admitted that the highly-rated midfielder has no problem remaining with Sao Paulo, if the Brazilian club's demands are not met.
"The player is my boss, I always talk to him," Ribeiro told Radio Globo.
"He determines what I do, my objectives. If he says that he doesn't want to leave Sao Paulo, I won't even listen to the offer.
"He told me to keep negotiating when I talked about Manchester United's interest.
"It's a great offer. If it was an irrecusable one, he would leave, but he is happy at Sao Paulo too. If he stays there, life goes on."

Ferdinand - Losing was madness

Rio Ferdinand insists Manchester United will never repeat the 'madness' of their dramatic title collapse.

United let slip an eight-point lead with just six games remaining - allowing rivals Manchester City to win their first league title in 44 years on goal difference.
While the 33-year-old centre-back acknowledges City's achievement, he feels his side had the Premier League title in their grasp and threw it away.
Ferdinand told The Sun: "Fair play to City. You've got to be a good team to win the league, so I wouldn't take anything away from them.

"But if you gave us the last few games of the season and put us in that situation again, it wouldn't happen. It was just madness.
"That's down to us, though. We take full blame for it and don't look to anyone else."
Although the title was effectively out of United's hands at Sunderland on the final day of the season, they were still forced to cope with the bitter blow of losing the league in injury-time.
City struck twice against QPR in a matter of moments to snatch the trophy and Ferdinand believes it was a harsh lesson that the youngsters in Sir Alex Ferguson's squad can learn from.

He added: "You think to yourself that the young players will learn from last season.
"We would rather have won the league but it's a valuable experience that I'm sure they'll learn from because that feeling in the dressing-room after the Sunderland game isn't one you want too many more times in your career, if any.
"The manager just said, especially to the young players in the dressing-room, to take on board what had just happened and learn from it.
"I remember when I first came to United and we lost the League Cup final to Liverpool.
"It was my first-ever final and the game just kind of passed me by because it can go that quick.
"If you don't grasp the moment with both hands, there will be other similar opportunities that go amiss.
"So all through my career I've thought 'That can't happen again' and, when you get those big games, you've got to make sure you're ready and push yourself and your team-mates on as well."
Ferdinand's career seemed to be in decline going into last season as he battled a series of long-term injury complaints.
Ferguson even suggested that the experienced defender was no longer an automatic first-choice ahead of Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling.
But the England international played 30 Premier League games in the 2011/12 campaign - more than he had in any of the previous three seasons - and Ferdinand is not ready to step aside for United's young hopefuls just yet.

Obstacles

"There are always obstacles that are put in your way in your career," he said. "Sometimes the manager says and does things for a reaction but top players normally react in the right way and I would like to think I have done that.
"I played more games last season than I had for the previous couple of years.

"Careers aren't there to be easy and for everything to fall into place. You have to work hard in order to achieve things.
"I like challenges and as a footballer you need to embrace them, then go out there and perform. Hopefully that will make it difficult for the manager to leave you out.
"Obviously people see my career ending in the next two or three years and the manager has to plan for the future.
"But I have to prove to him that I can continue playing and the youngsters have to prove they are worthy of a place."
Ferguson has already indicated that Ferdinand will be offered a one-year rolling deal at the end of the season and the former West Ham and Leeds man is relaxed about that situation.He added: "Nothing has happened yet and I don't see it happening until at least after January because that is the way the manager works.
"I am not a special case because I am Rio Ferdinand. Hopefully the manager pulls me aside and says 'I want you to continue playing here' because I love playing for this club and love being here.
"We always get challenges at United, that's been the case since before I arrived. Now, the challenge is City and we have to rise to that."

Rio: Kagawa is 'quick, sharp, has great awareness and plays off both feet'

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has revealed he has been impressed by what he's seen from Shinji Kagawa so far.

The Japan international showed glimpses of class in the 1-1 draw with South African side Ajax Cape Town on Saturday and has already enchanted the powerful centre-back, who said he was "excited" about the prospect of playing with him this season.

“I've been very, very impressed," Ferdinand told the team's official website.

"He's quick, he's sharp, he has great awareness, he plays off both feet.

“I'm excited about playing with him and getting the season started. I think he'll be a great acquisition.”

The former Cerezo Osaka and Borussia Dortmund man also earned praise from Sir Alex Ferguson for his rapid integration and impeccable attitude in training, despite not being comfortable with English yet.

“The thing that's impressed me is that every exercise we do on the training ground, he's never needed it to be explained,” Ferguson said.

“After one demonstration he joins in, as if he's known the language forever. We know he doesn't speak the language, but it isn't a problem.

“It just goes to show that a good footballer can pick up exactly what's needed. He's been fantastic in that respect.”

United will continue their preparation for the new campaign with a friendly against Chinese big spenders Shanghai Shenhua on Wednesday. 

Replacing Man Utd’s Paul Scholes a tough task – Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson admits trying to replace Manchester

United midfielder Paul Scholes will be a very difficult task.

The 37-year-old retired last summer after a decorated 18 years at Old Trafford, with the former England international winning 10 Premier League titles, the FA Cup three times and the Champions League twice.
Ferguson coaxed Scholes out of retirement in January as United struggled to cope with injuries and the veteran helped inspire them to a run of 12 wins in 13 games, before the Red Devils eventually missed out on the title to Manchester City on goal difference.
The midfielder, who agreed a new one-year deal in May, is expected to call time on his United career at the end of his current contract, and Ferguson concedes it will be a challenge to find a worthy replacement for Scholes.
“Darren Fletcher has a medical situation that he’s trying hard to keep under control,” Ferguson told United’s website. “We don’t expect him back immediately but, hopefully, he does come back at some point.
“Paul Scholes, a year ago, was coaching my reserves. Now he’s back playing and everybody attached to United is delighted. He’s such a fantastic player.
“In the long-term, trying to replace Scholes is very difficult. To replace a great player like him would be hard for anyone. We always hope somebody turns up through the ranks of United, from the academy.
“We’ve also signed the young boy Nick Powell. We hope he develops into a top-class centre-midfield player because he has very good potential.”
Meanwhile, Ferguson revealed Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic, who returned to full training on Monday, are likely to miss the start of the season.
“It’s not 100 per cent that Jonny Evans and Vidic will start the season,” he added. “Jonny will start running today. Vidic and Phil Jones started full training today, which is very positive.
“If I can keep Rio fit, then Vidic and Jones should give us ample cover.”

Carrick ready for England return

Michael Carrick has admitted he would consider a return to the England fold under Roy Hodgson.
The Manchester United midfielder, 31, informed the Football Association earlier this year that he did not wish to be considered for selection, having grown fed up of being a bit-part player under Fabio Capello.
However, with Hodgson now at the helm, Carrick has revealed he would be open to playing again for his country.
“I’ve had no contact from Roy Hodgson, so it would be wrong of me at this stage to make a decision either way,” Carrick said. “But yes, I would consider returning. Definitely.
“It wasn’t a case of me turning my back on my country or quitting. It is a game about opinions and Capello wanted to play a certain way.
“If that was the road he wanted to go down, then it wasn’t for me to argue with that. I just didn’t play, that’s all. I didn’t really speak to Capello about it. I just let him know my decision. In many ways the decision was made for me.”

Zenit enter the race for unsettled Man United star

 

Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov could be on his way to Russia after champions Zenit St Petersburg entered the race to sign the unsettled Bulgarian.
Berbatov, 31, is widely expected to leave Old Trafford this summer after voicing his frustration at life at Old Trafford, having fallen behind the likes of Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck in the pecking order.
The former Bulgaria international, who is United’s record signing, is available for a cut-price fee of £5m, and has attracted interest from a string of top clubs across Europe, including AC Milan, who are looking to replace Sweden international Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, according to Russian newspaper Life Sports, Zenit have made contact with Berbatov’s representative Emil Danchev and are willing to offer the Bulgarian a two-year deal worth £3.9m a season.

Vidic back in full training

Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has returned to full training at Carrington following a knee ligament injury.

The Serbia international has been sidelined since December after suffering the serious knee injury during the UEFA Champions League defeat by Basel.
However, he is stepping up his bid for a return to full fitness and was joined in training by Jonny Evans and Phil Jones, as the trio look to be available for selection as soon as possible.
With United having already lost Chris Smalling for 10 weeks, manager Sir Alex Ferguson is likely to take a cautious approach to Evans and Vidic during their rehabilitation.

Positive

"It's not 100 per cent that Jonny Evans and Vida will start the season," Ferguson said at a press conference in Shanghai.
"Jonny will start running today. Vida and Phil Jones started full training today, which is very positive. If I can keep Rio fit, then Vidic and Jones should give us ample cover."
Meanwhile, the Ferguson remains uncertain on the time-scale regarding midfielder Darren Fletcher's possible return to action as he tries to manage a chronic bowel condition.
Ferguson added: "Darren Fletcher has a medical situation that he's trying hard to keep under control.
"We don't expect him back immediately but, hopefully, he does come back at some point."

Inter Milan Ready To Rival Manchester United For Lucas Moura

Italians still keen on Sao Paulo winger.
Inter Milan are ready to rival Manchester United for the signature of Sao Paulo wonderkid Lucas Moura.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has denied that the Old Trafford club have reached an agreement for the 19-year-old but confirmed his interest in Lucas.
It is thought that Sao Paulo are holding out for a fee of around £30 million for the Brazil international, who operates predominantly as a right-winger.
It is understood that Inter are keeping tabs on the situation and are ready to rival United for the youngster’s signature.
Inter’s president, Massimo Moratti, has confirmed that the signing of Lucas remains realistic, despite the inflated fee.
“Lucas is not just a dream but an objective,” said Moratti, according to Football Italia.
“We are certainly thinking about him, but we’ll have to see if there are the conditions in place to close the deal.”
Lucas is currently in the UK with the Brazilian Olympic squad and Ferguson is thought to be confident of concluding a deal before the end of the Games.
The Scot will not welcome Inter’s interest, however, which could lead to a bidding war and an increase in Lucas’ already hefty price.

Man United & Arsenal Target Robert Lewandowski Will Cost More Than £13m, Insists Agent

Pole will only leave for big bucks.

The agent of Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski has insisted that it will take more than £13 million to sign the Polish striker.
Manchester United hold a long standing interest in the 23-year-old, while Tottenham, Arsenal and Man City are all monitoring his situation at the German club.
But it is big-spending Chelsea who have made the first move, reportedly offering £13 million for Lewandowski – a bid rejected by Dortmund.
Lewandowksi shot to fame last season, finishing top scorer in the Bundesliga with 23 goals, as Dortmund claimed the title.
The powerful striker has 15 goals in 45 games for Poland and impressed at Euro 2012, scoring the first goal of the tournament as the co-hosts drew with Greece.
“Unofficially there are offers from top English clubs,” Lewandowski’s agent, Maik Barthel, told Goal.com.
“We respect the contract situation in Dortmund and don’t want to take part in speculation.
“A £13million transfer fee is not suitable.”

utd confirm lucas interest

ir Alex Ferguson has admitted Manchester United are trying to sign Brazilian wonderkid Lucas Moura.
As revealed by MirrorFootball, United are closing in on a £26million deal with Sao Paulo for the 19-year-old sensation but the deal is not yet complete.
Ferguson, speaking in Shanghai on United's pre-season tour, said: "We haven't reached an agreement for the player.
"We have shown interest but until such time as we can get an agreement, then we can't say he's our player."
Sao Paulo are understood to have accepted in principle United's bid for Lucas, who is in England for the Olympics.

Amazingly Lucas would need a permit appeal to be allowed to play in England, but with the money involved the authorities are sure to be convinced he is in the ‘special talent’ category.
Lucas would ideally have a medical as soon as possible, but Brazil are favourites for the gold medal - and it would be disruptive for them at the moment.

United lead race for arsenal skipper

Manchester United have been earned a huge upper hand in the race to sign Robin van Persie, with reports suggesting that the striker would prefer a move to Old Trafford than across the city to the Etihad Stadium.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed on Friday that the Red Devils were in the market for the 28-year old striker, and had already seen a bid, believed to be around £10 million, turned down by the Gunners. However, this latest revelation has strengthened United’s chances of landing the Dutchman, with Ferguson set to submit an improved offer next week.
Van Persie reportedly is keen on joining a club with a strong sense of tradition, and has a deep respect for United’s culture and history. Additionally, the fact that the Red Devils showed an interest in him back in 2009 has left Van Persie flattered, with the frontman honoured that the Red Devils have been coveting him for so long.
Furthermore, what is working against Manchester City is Emmanuel Adebayor’s continued presence at the Etihad Stadium. Van Persie and Adebayor were involved in an ugly exchange of words in 2009, when the Togolese international was handed a ban for stamping on Van Persie’s face. The Dutchman called the challenge ‘mindless and malicious’, and has never been able to see eye to eye with his former Arsenal teammate since.
A potential stumbling block for United however would be the player’s wages, with the Red Devils not expected to reach City’s £225,000-per-week, or even Juventus’ £190,000-a-week deal for Van Persie.
Wenger on the other hand has slowly been resigned to the fact that his talisman will leave over the summer, saying on Saturday: “It’s more important that we focus on the season to come. We’ve learnt that it’s vital to focus on the start of the season rather than any transfers. If the transfers happen they happen.”
Wenger would however prefer to sell him to Juventus than hand his biggest ace to a league rival, and is least interested in doing business with United, who have been the Frenchman’s biggest adversaries during his 16-year spell with the Gunners.

Sir Alex Ferguson defends Glazer ownership of Manchester United

The Red Devils' boss has come out in support of the club's controversial American owners, saying that he has never had any problems with them and highlighting recent success

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has defended the Glazer family against criticism over their ownership of the club.

The Americans have become unpopular with fans of the Red Devils after racking up enormous debts at Old Trafford since taking over in 2005.

 

But Ferguson has spoken out in the owners' defence, saying that he has never encountered any problems during their time in charge and has pointed out the success the club has enjoyed during their leadership.

"I am absolutely comfortable with the Glazer situation. They have been great," he told The Daily Mirror. "It will always be contentious with them [the fans] whoever owns us.

"When I first came, Martin Edwards was always getting pelted because he was going to sell first to [Robert] Maxwell and then to [Rupert] Murdoch and Michael Knighton.

"When the club became a PLC there was a disaffection and again when the Glazers took over. So there has always been wee pockets of supporters who have their views, and there is nothing wrong with that.

"But I think the majority of real fans will look at it realistically and say it's not affecting the team. We've won four championships since the owners came and also the Champions League.

"They have always backed me whenever I have asked them. I have never encountered opposition. They have always been as sensible as they can in terms of financing the team and they have to invest in the team to maintain the value of their asset."

"I think the problem for the Glazers is they aren't publicists. They don't go out of their way to seek good publicity. They are happy to stay in the background, like [Roman] Abramovich at Chelsea."

The 70-year-old has also praised the Glazers' plans for the future, with an upgrading of the team's training facilities in the pipeline.

"Look at what they are spending on the training ground," the Scot continued. "It's going to be fantastic. It's a bit of a bomb site at the moment, but we are hoping it will be finished on time in October.

"When you start a project like that it just gets bigger and bigger. They'll be spending £30 million - and it's all down to the owners." 

 

Sir Alex Ferguson laments Manchester City's spending policy

Red Devils' boss has spoken out against big spending sides for altering the climate for buying top players, where clubs can't afford to pay extreme salaries and agents' fees

The 70-year-old insists that sort of spending policy is an insult to Manchester United who have always put faith in youth development.

United have already spent £21 million this summer adding 23-year-old Shinji Kagawa from Borussia Dortmund and 18-year-old Nick Powell from Crewe Alexandra, but Sir Alex claims they cannot compete for 'top players' because of salaries and agents' fees along with the transfer fee itself.

He told The Daily Mirror: "What we are finding a problem is the climate for buying top ­players. “It’s not just the transfer fees or the salaries, it’s also the agents’ fees. It’s getting ridiculous now.
“In the [Eden] Hazard deal, ­Chelsea paid the agent £6 million. And the ­situation last year with [Samir] Nasri was the same."
Sir Alex says that placing faith in young players is part of United's history and it is part of what separates them from the others.
He continued: "I can see Powell being a big surprise for us this season even though he is only 18. And that’s the difference between Manchester United and the rest – we can play 18-year-olds because it’s part of our history.
“It’s like a destiny for us. When a young player emerges, we play him – and that has never failed us.
“No other clubs can do that. City won’t do it. They definitely won’t play any youngsters who have come up through their system.
“Their buys are all 25, 26 or 27. Established players with good ­maturity and experience.
“City won’t be going away because they have a good age group.
“They don’t have any over-30s, but they don’t play any youngsters ­either and their fans don’t expect youth players to come through the way they do at United."
While admitting the current champions go into next season as favourites to retain their crown, the United boss still claims his side will be the one to beat.
“City will be the title favourites, no doubt about that, but I’m not worried at all", he added.
“The team everyone will worry about is Manchester United because our record of coming back is ­unbelievable.”

Anderson admits Manchester United crossroads

Manchester United midfielder Anderson has admitted that he faces a crucial stage in his Old Trafford career, and that the next few weeks will determine his future.

The Brazilian is under contract until 2015, and despite suffering from a number of fitness and off-field problems, he believes he can recover and come back better than ever.

"The last two years have been very difficult," he told reporters. "Nobody wants a player who has a lot of injuries.

"But I am still young. I am only 24. And I believe I can get through this.

"All summer I stayed in Europe to work on my knee. Now I am 100 per cent. I don't have any more injuries. I don't have a problem."

Now, with pre-season preparations well underway as the Red Devils tour South Africa, Anderson believes this season is one of the most important in his career.

"This is a very big season for me," he added.

"In my first three years we won everything; Champions League, Premier League, Carling Cup. But then I suffered a cruciate injury and had a bad problem.

"I tried to push through it when I came back but it was still sore. Sometimes it was bad and the pain stayed.

"Sometimes you think you might have to change clubs, but I love it here.

"The club has always helped me, as have the other players. I have worked so hard trying to get right."

United often looked depleted in the centre of midfield last season, and the Brazilian believes that he could play a key role in adding to their resources in that position for the coming campaign.

"Manchester United have some good players; [Paul] Scholes, [Michael] Carrick, [Tom] Cleverley, [Ryan] Giggs," he said.

"If we bring in new players it will help even more, although you could say that about any club.

"The thing is, if I stay fit, I can be that player. I can be a success at United.

"You have seen, when I don't have a problem, I play well.

"The problems come when I have an injury. After six or seven games last season it felt as though one leg was 30% weaker than the other."

The Red Devils next face Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua on July 25 at Shanghai Stadium.

Sir Alex Ferguson: There will be life after me at Manchester United

Sir Alex Ferguson believes the next Manchester United boss won't have an impossible job continuing his success because of the foundations he has laid at the club.
United finished trophyless last season, with big spending Chelsea and Manchester City picking up the major honours.

However, Sir Alex has no doubt that the Red Devils will get back to the to top, even after he eventually leaves Old Trafford.

“Of course, there will be life after me,” he told the The Daily Mirror. “Absolutely.
“Manchester United is an ­institution and the history of the club forces everything.
“We have support all over the world and that in itself raises ­expectation levels.
“But it won’t be an impossible job to succeed me with the structure we have at this club. It will need an ­experienced manager – and I don’t think the club will choose a young manager because of what the job demands.
“But no one will refuse this job after me – whatever the situation.”
The 70-year-old believes the promising young players in his squad combined with the training facilities and the biggest stadium in the Premier League mean it won't be a daunting prospect for whoever has to fill his boots.
He added: “This is a club with solid foundations. We’ve got a great ­stadium, a great training ground and a lot of good young players. “If you look at it, I could play a full team of players aged 22 or 23.
“[David] De Gea, Rafael, [Chris] Smalling, [Phil] Jones, [Jonny] Evans, [Tom] Cleverley, [Nick] Powell, Chicharito, [Jesse] Lingard, [Danny] Welbeck and [Shinji] Kagawa.
“These players will be the United team in years to come, so it would not be a daunting prospect to follow me.
“Whoever does come in will have his own way, but he will have a foundation to work from.”

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Man Utd boss Ferguson pleased with Powell, Kagawa in Ajax Cape Town draw

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased with new signings Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell for their draw with Ajax Cape Town.
Bebe's late effort salvaged a 1-1 draw after Kagawa had spurned a glorious chance to open his goal account. However, the Japan international impressed before Powell displayed neat skill as a substitute and was unlucky not to score before the injury-time equaliser.
"It was a competitive game," the manager told MUTV. "They caused us a few problems and we decided to make changes and bring on the younger players.
"Shinji was very good. He's an intelligent footballer, quick and has his head up all the time. He knows when a pass has to be made and I'm pleased. Nick Powell is a talented boy. He missed some training and 30 minutes was just stretching him a bit in terms of sharpness but the boy is a very good talent.
"We showed a reaction to losing the goal. We increased the pace in our game and could maybe have got a winner. It was a satisfying performance, a competitive game and a great atmosphere. Now we've got 16 hours' travel [to Shanghai] and we need to recover from that first of all."

Read more at http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/man-utd-boss-ferguson-pleased-powell-kagawa-ajax-cape-town-draw-3397211#mc1vyqzTlDXSitfR.99

Thiago Silva: Lucas can match Ronaldo, Nani success at Man Utd

PSG signing Thiago Silva isn't surprised seeing Manchester United moving for Sao Paulo star Lucas Moura.
Thiago Silva is captain of Brazil's Olympics team and working closely with Lucas.
"I see many possibilities for Lucas to play in English football," said Thiago Silva.
"Despite being a short guy he is really strong and powerful. It is really difficult to stop him.
"In Manchester particularly, they play with two wingers - it used to be Cristiano Ronaldo and now it's Nani. He has the same qualities as these players."

Read more at http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/thiago-silva-lucas-can-match-ronaldo-nani-success-man-utd-3395301#r64tX0dGmpS4qAut.99