It's Good To Be Back

After an extended summer break, United's players are relieved to be back preparing for a new campaign at Carrington.

With the exception of those involved at the World Cup, the Reds have been afforded an eight week break - an extra two and a half weeks compared to the previous campaign.

"Eight weeks is a long time," Wes Brown told MUTV. "I've been on holiday for most of it, and when I've been back around the last couple of weeks I've wanted to get back in. It's been nice and we've had a good rest and we're all excited now to get ready for the season."

Darren Fletcher admits being consigned to armchair involvement in the World Cup has only stoked his desire to get back in action.

"I am glad to be back," says the Scottish midfielder. "The last few weeks I've been itching to get back. Watching the World Cup makes you wish you were there and makes you want to play football again, just like a kid really.

"Towards the end of the season you're a bit tired and you're looking forward to the break but after a couple of weeks you're desperate to get back. I've enjoyed being back in over the last couple of days and I'm looking forward to the tour as well."

The days of players dreading pre-season preparations are gone, according to Wes. "It's actually getting better," he says. "It was worse a long time ago. It's not too bad now - there's a bit of football involved early on and obviously running. But the lads are back and happy, and we can't wait to go on the tour now."