Fergie: Young To Play On Left

Sir Alex Ferguson has earmarked Ashley Young as Ryan Giggs' long-term successor on Manchester United's left flank.

The 26-year-old was signed earlier this summer for £16million from Aston Villa as Ferguson moved swiftly to beat off competition from Liverpool.

In recent years, Giggs has occupied a more central midfield position as Ferguson looked for ways to counteract his diminishing pace.

Young too, is able to play in a variety of roles as he displayed during his tenure at Aston Villa but at United his role will be more clearly defined.

"Ashley can play in more than one position," Ferguson told Inside United.

"He can play wide right, left, even behind the striker, so we have options there. But, initially, we'll start him as a wide left player."

Ferguson has also hinted fellow new recruit Phil Jones could feature more prominently than first thought.

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At 19, the England Under 21 international was seen as a star of the future following his £16.5 million move from Blackburn.

Yet, Ferguson admits he would have no hesitation in giving Jones first-team football due to his abundance of qualities.

"We first identified Jones when he played for Blackburn's youth team against us a couple of years ago when they beat us 3-0. He was absolutely magnificent," he added.

"You might think he might not play, but the ability he's got and the determination he's got, he could quite easily play. He's the future obviously, but he could certainly come in right away."