Sir Alex Eyes Flying Start

Sir Alex Ferguson wants Manchester United to "get off to a flyer" this season, as the Reds aim to win back the Barclays Premier League trophy from neighbours Manchester City.

City pipped United on the final day of the 2011/12 season to win their first league title in 44 years. With success comes pressure, however, and Sir Alex is determined to turn up the heat on Roberto Mancini's men right from the beginning of the forthcoming campaign.

United begin the season with a tricky trip to Everton on Monday 20 August, 24 hours after City host Southampton at the Etihad Stadium. Not that playing catch-up from such an early stage is something that worries the boss.

"The Monday night start doesn’t bother me," Sir Alex told the club's official monthly magazine, Inside United. "That’s not a big factor. The fact it’s Everton away holds much more weight.

"It’s a tough fixture and we’ve not found it easy there in recent years, despite some good results. We can’t complain, though. We had a tough start last season, too.

"We played Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea very early and ended up getting off to a flyer. We’ll be aiming to do the same this year."

Indeed, the Reds' start last term - Sir Alex's men won six of the first seven league fixtures - was the best by a Manchester United team since the Premier League's inception in 1992/93. Similar results in August and September this time around would go a long way to helping United mount another title challenge in the manager's 27th season in charge.


Also on Sir Alex's wish list is a better showing in the Champions League. The Reds went out of last season's competition at the group stage, finishing third behind Benfica and FC Basel.

"That was very careless," he told Inside United. "We can't accept that. We're better than that. "And I played a part in that as well. I took too many risks with team selections, played too many young players in certain games.

"That won't happen again next season. We'll qualify from the group stages. I'll make sure of it. European football is hugely important to this club and we need to be competing for the biggest trophies. We need to make a statement and show everybody last season was just a blip."

Chicharito Tipped For 'Top Season'

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced a much-needed summer break will lead to a successful season for Javier Hernandez.

After a superb maiden campaign for United, Chicharito struggled to reach the same heights in 2011/12, during which his progress was also disrupted by injury.

This summer Sir Alex negotiated for the striker to be left out of Mexico’s Olympics squad to allow him to rest, and the Reds boss believes we’ll see the best of him as a result.

"I think this season we'll see a better Chicharito," Sir Alex told the club's official monthly magazine, Inside United.

"For the last four or five years he's played all through the summer. This year, with the co-operation of Mexico, he's had a proper rest. And that started right back in May when I decided not to take him to Belfast for the Harry Gregg testimonial.

"We wanted to give him as much rest as possible. He had a couple of weeks off and then joined the Mexico side for a couple of qualifying games before getting another few weeks' rest.

"That was important for him and I'm sure he'll reap the benefits. We've already seen the fruits of that in the early training sessions and I think he'll have a top season."

Chicharito’s infectious enthusiasm will surely only aid his cause as he competes with United’s other forwards for a place in the side.

"He's such a good professional and such a fantastic personality," Sir Alex added. "He just loves life and loves playing football. Every training session he buzzes around the place with a big smile."

Manchester United Share Sale Causes Controversy Among Fans And Investors

Manchester United fans aren't happy. And looking at the terms of the proposed share sale in New York announced last night, it's not hard to see why.

The Glazer family, the club's US owners, want to raise up to $330m (£210m) on Wall Street, having shelved plans to raise $1bn in Singapore.

The problems lie with the terms of the sale, and what the Glazers intend to do with the money raised.

Only part of the proceeds will go towards paying down the club's $680m debt, with a significant chunk going directly to the Glazers themselves. And the structure of the sale means the Glazers' Class B shares will have 10 times the voting power of the Class A shares sold to the public.

"Supporters are going to be very angry about this," says Duncan Drasdo, chief executive of the Manchester United Supporters Trust.

"The Glazers have already cost United more than £550m in debt related fees and now we have another slap in the face as they help themselves to half of the proposed [sale] proceeds.

But it's not just the fans that are unhappy.

More worrying perhaps for the Glazers, given their need to raise cash fast, some investors appear equally sceptical.

"Shareholders are getting a shoddy deal," says Michael Jarman, chief equity strategist at H2O Markets, an ex-professional footballer and a United fan himself.

"Investors are not idiots and there is simply no value in the company. The Glazers want to have their cake and eat it - the share structure shows they want to retain complete and utter control."

He says there are plenty of other more attractive investments, where shareholders get a dividend and the chance for capital growth.

While acknowledging that, "debt free, Manchester United is a good business", Mr Jarman sees no such value at Old Trafford given its current debt position. In fact, he argues the club is massively overvalued.

Forbes magazine recently pronounced United, at $2.2bn, the most valuable club in world sport. Reports suggest the Glazers themselves value the club at around this level.

And yet less than two years ago, a group of investors lead by the respected chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Jim O'Neill, valued the club at about $1.5bn. With two years of global economic stagnation since then, the club's value will not have risen significantly.

Factor in operating profits - minus transfer activity - of $150m, and Mr Jarman argues investors are better off buying Tesco shares.

But there are many others who believe United's financial woes have been overplayed.

While acknowledging that "it's disappointing investors won't be able to vote and won't get a dividend", Roy Kaitcer, divisional director at stockbroker Brewin Dolphin, says the club's finances are not as bad as some suggest.

Also a keen United supporter, he points to the fact that the club's debts are already being paid down, and the upcoming share sale, if successful, will reduce them further by more than $100m.

He also points out that the Glazers are able to change the debt profile of their various holding companies by moving debt off the books of one and on to another.

Perhaps most importantly, he says the club's strong brand name and loyal support from more than 650 million supporters - according to United's own figures - across the world makes the club an extremely attractive commercial partner for global companies.

Further evidence for this came on Monday with the announcement that Chevrolet, owned by General Motors, one of the biggest carmakers in the world, will be the club's new shirt sponsor from the 2014-15 season.

And fanatical fans, driven by emotion rather than dispassionate financial analysis, may well insure the upcoming New York share sale proves hugely successful.

But there is no denying the club's heavy debts are impacting on the club's ability to maintain its pre-eminent position in the Premier League.

They have, for example, been blamed by many for the club's restrained activity in the transfer market in recent seasons, certainly when compared with free-spending rivals such as Chelsea and Manchester City.

Manchester United is bound by the commercial realities that do not, for now, affect its two biggest domestic rivals.

As Mr Jarman argues, running a successful football club and running a sustainable business are no longer compatible.

You just need to look at the recent success of Manchester City and the spending power of clubs such as Paris St Germain and Anzhi Makhachkala to see how the landscape is changing.

"Football has become a rich man's paradise," says Mr Jarman. And in today's market, it would appear the Glazer's pockets simply aren't deep enough.

Man. United To Sell Shares At $16 Each In New York Sale

Manchester United has said it plans to raise as much as $330m (£210m) in a share listing in New York.

In documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the football club said it would sell 16.7 million shares at between $16 and $20 each.

But it also revealed that revenue had fallen in the last year as they were knocked out of the Champions League.

Manchester United was recently called the most valuable club in sport, worth $2.23bn, according to Forbes magazine.

The club has been controlled since 2005 by billionaire US sports investors the Glazer family, who also own the Tampa Bay Buccaneers American football team.

The Glazers' Class B shares will have 10 times the voting power of the Class A shares sold to the public.

United has said it plans to use the proceeds to repay debt.

The club currently has £437m of debt and £70m in cash.

In the regulatory filing, the club said its total revenue for the year to June was between £315m and £320m, down as much as 5% from last year.

That was mainly due to a 11-13% drop in broadcasting revenues - to £102m to £104m - after the team failed to make it past the group stages of Europe's premier club football competiton.

Man Utd said profit for the year from continuing operations will be as much as £23m, an increase of as much as 77% from the previous year due to tax credits.

The team spent a net £50m on players.

The company was incorporated in the Cayman Islands on 30 April.

On Monday, Manchester United also said it signed a new deal to have its shirts sponsored by US car brand Chevrolet.


Chevrolet will soon be the new shirt sponsor of Manchester United
The deal for an "undisclosed amount" is for seven years and begins from the 2014-2015 season, the club said.

Chevrolet, which is made by General Motors, takes over from current sponsor Aon.

The Glazers borrowed large sums of money to buy the club and the interest payments on this debt are onerous.

In 2010, the owners converted these loans into a bond in order to reduce the interest, but analysts say the share sale demonstrates how the club remains weighed down by its heavy debts, despite its huge global fan base and promotional and marketing efforts.

The Premier League giant, who came second last season and have won a record 19 titles, is listing on the New York Stock Exchange.

Chevrolet Signs Seven Year Deal

General Motors and Manchester United today announced that the world's most popular football club's shirt sponsor will be Chevrolet, beginning with the 2014/2015 season.

Chevrolet, the current Official Car Partner of the Club, will become only the fifth shirt sponsor in the Club’s 134 year history.

Announcing the deal, signed for an undisclosed amount, United’s Commercial Director, Richard Arnold, said:

“This is a fantastic, long-term deal for the Club. We have been partners with Chevrolet for only six weeks, but already they have produced some fantastic ideas that will benefit both the partnership and our 659 million followers around the world. They are a key partner on our current tour and I know they have enjoyed experiencing the buzz generated by our fanatical support and the sell-out crowds in South Africa, China, and Europe.

"It is a great thrill for those of us who work with partners all year round when an existing partner steps up to being one of our principal partners. This commitment to United and its fans will bring real benefits to everyone who cares about the Club.”

The US-based car company will replace Aon, whose partnership with United began in the 2010/11 season.

Alan Batey, General Motors’ North America Vice President, U.S. Sales and Service said:

“We are extremely proud to connect our brand, Chevrolet, with Manchester United and its passionate supporters all around the world. Manchester United’s statistics are impressive, but this relationship goes far beyond the numbers – this relationship is about connecting our brand with the deep-seated emotion that surrounds the team everywhere it goes.

"When you consider the core values of Chevrolet, our passionate customers around the world, and our rich 100 year history, the partnership with Manchester United is a perfect fit. And, to be only the fifth name on the iconic red jersey is a genuine honour. We very much look forward to the road ahead and the opportunities we have in partnering with such a legendary club.”

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."

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.

More than two months on, Scholes is magnanimous about City's triumph despite the personal disappointment he suffered and is hoping it will act as motivation for United this season.

"You always say the best team wins the league and City were the best team last year," said the 37-year-old midfielder, who came out of retirement in January.

"The football they played for the most of the season was fantastic. As much as I don't want to admit it, they were good to watch and probably played the best football.

"So from that aspect, they were the best team and deserved to win it. They have raised the bar and it's up to us to now kick on and do even better than they did.

"It's always a motivating factor when you lose the league and perhaps we will be motivated even more after what happened.

"It isn't nice when you see another team winning the title on the last day of the season. You have that picture in your head of them celebrating and you don't want it to happen again.

"I still don't really understand what happened.

"We should have won the league and we didn't. In the end, we failed. To be in the position we were - eight points clear with six games to go - well, it's not like us."

Sir Alex Ferguson hasn't overhauled the United squad in the wake of title disappointment but Japan international Kagawa has arrived from Borussia Dortmund.

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."

Lindegaard's Big Chance

Eric Steele has thrown down the gauntlet to Anders Lindegaard and urged the Dane to press home his claims for a first-team spot during pre-season.

With David De Gea on Olympic duty with Spain, the Scandinavian shot-stopper impressed in South Africa and China and will have further opportunities to shine in the remaining games on the DHL tour.

Lindegaard made one outstanding save in the win against Shanghai Shenhua and has clearly returned in good shape after the disappointment of suffering an injury last season and failing to make an appearance for his country at Euro 2012.

In the second and concluding part of his exclusive interview with MUTV, Steele admits he expects the former Aalesunds keeper to push De Gea all the way for the gloves.

"The manager has got a lovely decision with Anders back, albeit with a totally disjointed pre-season, and he's got David coming back off the Olympics at whatever stage, and there is healthy competition which is what every manager wants," stated Steele.

"I think Anders has got every chance to do so [start the season as first choice]. We brought him back early, as David did on 28 June when he did two days' physical and sports conditioning and then a full week with me before he joined up with the Spanish squad. We made sure he went into there with some form of base.

"David missed pre-season last year, misses it this year and will miss it next year because it's the European Under-21 Championship again. With the value of pre-season, he's missed two and that does throw the gauntlet down to Anders.

"Of course it does and, due to the disjointed nature of pre-season, Anders has got a chance. At the Swedish, Norwegian and German games, Ben Amos will be gone by then, so we've got to travel with Anders and Sam Johnstone and that gives him a chance to say: 'Okay, I'll stake a claim'."

When asked if there is a competitive relationship between the pair for a place in the team, Steele replied: "Of course. If Anders didn't [have that], I'd kick his backside because that is what we brought him in to do. We brought him in initially for the first four or five months to spend time with the master and he worked alongside Edwin [van der Sar]. He had a problem with his knee but at least he was there to see what was expected of him.

"It did him the world of good. Don't forget he's a late developer whose only had about 80-90 games but he's 28 and has still got a great career ahead of him.

"He knows this is his chance. Whoever wears the jersey, it doesn't matter if we're playing a friendly because there's no such thing as a friendly as these are high-profile games. I make the point to Anders not to under-estimate pre-season games in terms of forming an image and impression in the manager's mind. What they should all be thinking about is, when the first XI is decided to go to Goodison, you want to be in that."

Steele feels all four first-team keepers - De Gea, Lindegaard, Amos (who is joining Hull on loan) and Johnstone - realise they have to keep working and striving to become the regular starter at United.

"They are all at the stage where they should not be the finished article like Edwin and Peter Schmeichel," he reasoned. "They know that well so there are still areas for all four of them to improve. So that's what my job is. They've got to be best prepared if that call comes and that's my job.

"I think [the first-team spot] it is up for grabs and the competitive element is what the manager wants. It's why he's looking to improve the squad - he wants to have competition at all levels. So if you're No1, stay with it, or if you're No2, make sure you do everything to take your chance and retain it.

"At the moment, Anders is here and David's at the Olympics and he's got to prepare himself to hand it over to the manager to say: 'Right, what's your decision?'"

Kagawa Enjoying Life As A Red

What has impressed you most so far as a United player?
The big welcome at the stadiums and the supporters’ response to us. I have joined such a great club and I want to achieve results here. I want to play football without forgetting that fact. United have so many fans and, because of that, I feel a big responsibility. That is in my mind each day.

What is the biggest difference you see between United and Dortmund?
I was totally amazed by how many fans came out in South Africa and China, and how loud they were! It made me realise that United supporters are all over the world. It dawned on me how big a club United is and I feel very proud and lucky to be a part of this club.

Sir Alex says you pick up things in training quickly, despite not speaking English yet…
I understand what I should be doing in training because most of the football exercises are easy to understand. I know my English is not good yet so I will study hard so that I can communicate with my team-mates directly as soon as possible.

Which players do you communicate with?
Players from South America such as Anderson and Antonio (Valencia) often strike up friendly conversations with me, which is a big help. Anderson asked me to teach him some Japanese.

What did you teach him?
I taught him ore kakkoii ("I am cool" or "I am handsome"). It is nice to see everyone seems to be interested in Japan.

How does it feel to be the first Japanese football player at United?
I won’t suddenly change my playing style. I think people appreciate that of me as a footballer and it’s why I think I was able to join United. As I did in the Bundesliga for two years, I would like to show my presence in attack – scoring goals, assisting my team-mates. If my combination with my team-mates improves, I believe there will be chances. I will use my experience.

What is your goal for the season?
Every single day is important. I have to achieve results in each game. That's how I feel. If I play well in one game but not in the next game, I get a poor rating. I want to grow as a football player who can help my team by doing my best everyday, for a whole season. To achieve that, I think it is most important to play in the matches.

Steele Analyses De Gea's Year

Head goalkeeping coach Eric Steele has explained how United and David De Gea coped with the intense pressure on the young Spanish shot-stopper in the early days of his Old Trafford career.

The highly-rated No1, currently representing his country at the Olympics, was thrust into the spotlight as the successor to legendary Dutchman Edwin van der Sar following a close-season arrival from Atletico Madrid. Obviously, the 21-year-old took time to adapt to English football but ended the campaign successfully on a personal level, even if it ended in disappointment for the club.

In an exclusive in-depth interview with MUTV, Steele provided a detailed account of De Gea's debut season in the Barclays Premier League.

"David will be slightly disappointed," admitted Steele, when reviewing the keeper's first year. "We probably got what we expected. There was no way we expected him to come in and play as he had been playing.

"It was a totally different change for him in many, many ways. Hence the reason why we said before that, to replace Edwin, we needed two and that was the main reason why Anders Lindegaard was on board. So when we did feel he needed to come out, as you know, the games were shared with Ben Amos and Anders.

"Anders had the injury just after Christmas and then, as fate has it, David gets back in when you least expect it and just went on and it was important he finished strongly. That's the big plus factor for us. He has adapted partly. The first season is always the most difficult. He has been through lots of firsts and we know he'll be better prepared in terms of the second time."

De Gea had to deal with an enormous level of scrutiny from the media after his arrival and was fiercely criticised in some quarters during the early part of his United career.

"I think it was over the top but it was a good thing that it just went straight over his head," added Steele. "Probably the fact he didn't really command the language in the early two or three months would've been a help but he still had e-mail contact from back home so he knew what was being said. But, if you dealt with him day-to-day and would see him on the field, if it was bothering him it didn't show in terms of training and his attitude off the field."

The Spaniard had to contend with a number of issues when sealing his move, including finding a new property and learning the language and was thrown in at the deep end against local rivals Manchester City in the Community Shield.

"It wasn't what the manager and I expected and the rest of the staff," added Steele. "We knew it would be a gradual process and would've liked to dip him in and out a bit more but we couldn't do that.

"It doesn't do any harm coming out of the firing line, set aside and look and reflect. He'd never had his game analysed like we try and help him. I'm not going along with the bandwagon theory as some of his performances in the first three or four months were still exceptional.

"There are that many different firsts he had to contend with, number one if you make an error at Old Trafford, how do you react? So his mistake management was brilliant as it didn't affect him. The next thing is to go to the biggest grounds and play, and contend with The Kop.

"You don't beat Arsenal 8-2 without his penalty save at 1-0 and the save just after half time at 2-1 from Robin van Persie, who could have had a hat-trick that day. There was the performance at Liverpool as well, with the save from Jordan Henderson in the last minute.

"Yes, there were errors but where the manager comes into his own is he has great faith in young players and all he did was reinforce the good with him. David also knew he had to appreciate very quickly that there was a challenge from Anders and he wasn't an automatic choice. Lindegaard helped David to a point as he was growing all the time during that spell and was ready to take the spot."

Ambassador Role For Schmeichel

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

As part of his role, the Dane will attend various events and functions on behalf of the club, promoting the work it does within the community and with its partners, sharing anecdotes from his time at Old Trafford.

Schmeichel played for United for eight years from 1991 to 1999 and his accolades include five Premier League titles, three FA Cups and a Champions League.

The iconic stopper was part of the celebrated '99 Treble-winning team and played with the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Roy Keane and Denis Irwin.

Schmeichel said: "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."

Other United ambassadors include Sir Bobby Charlton, Bryan Robson, Gary Neville and Andrew Cole.

Shinji's No Flash In The Pan

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Shinji Kagawa is no overnight sensation. In his mind, the Japanese midfielder, who scored the only goal of Wednesday's game against Shanghai Shenhua to seal victory in the Chevrolet China cup, has the ability to perform consistenly at the top level.

Kagawa first attracted attention from Europe's top clubs, including Manchester United, during his first season with Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund. He netted eight goals in 18 appearances in an injury-hit campaign that ended with Die Borussen's first league title in nine years.

But it was his second season, Sir Alex told ManUtd.com, that cemented the United manager's belief that Kagawa had the necessary attributes to succeed at Old Trafford.

"There was a lot of interest in him after his first season because he started so well at Dortmund," the United boss said.

"But I never think you can tell after one season. I wanted to see how he’d do in his second campaign – it’s more of a test because your opponents tend to know more about you.

"He passed with flying colours. He was even better, in fact. So that was a straightforward decision for us."

Kagawa has certainly impressed team-mates in training, while fans have also been quick to praise the attacker following his Tour 2012 performances.

His ability to use both feet, vision in the final third and direct running at opposition defences have added an extra dimension to the Reds' attack.

"Shinji's intelligent, fast, has quick feet and works very hard," Sir Alex said. "At 23 he's a good age and already has a couple of years' experience at a big club in Borussia Dortmund.

"It’s obvious he’s a very good player. We have high hopes for him."

Proud Moment For Johnstone

Sam Johnstone was clearly a proud man after making his senior bow for Manchester United against Shanghai Shenhua.

The young keeper came on at half-time for Anders Lindegaard as Sir Alex Ferguson remained true to his word in giving match-time to every member of the DHL tour squad.

Although Johnstone had a quiet time of things as United dominated in a 1-0 victory, it was clear that the experience meant everything to him, despite skipper Rio Ferdinand's best efforts to distract him during the exclusive MUTV interview.

"Of course it's a proud moment for me and my family," he stated. "I got a text off my Dad in the morning saying I'd been working for this since I was 10 years old, which a lot of the team have.

"We've been together a long time and there were a lot of youngsters on the field."

Sir Alex commented, also on MUTV, about his England Under-19 international, who looks set to either be third-choice at Old Trafford next term or head out again on loan.

"He didn't have anything to do," said the boss. "But he's going to be a good keeper. We all know that he's tremendously talented and he's only 19 and is growing all the time, even if he is a big lad already."

No Problems For Powell

Nick Powell suffered no ill effects despite needing treatment during the first half of the 1-0 Chevrolet China Cup win against Shanghai Shenhua.

The new signing from Crewe Alexandra was shaken by a bone-jarring challenge involving Shouting Wang but continued before being withdrawn at the interval.

"I was fine," he told MUTV afterwards. "It was just a little jolt and my leg's okay. It did scare me but it's fine.

"It was great to get my first start and I want a bit more time to show people what I can do. It's a lot different to Crewe - they're in Swindon at an army camp and I'm coming here to China so it's ridiculous. I get on with most of them [team-mates] as they're a great bunch of lads and happy to be with them."

Sir Alex Ferguson was pleased with Powell's contribution, even if he did miss a good chance to open his Reds account.

"Nick Powell did well," said the boss. "It's his first game, he's only 18. But he got a really bad tackle - a sore one - in the first half. He played on but I thought it was better to take him off. He was feeling it a bit. He's two-footed, he has good balance and awareness about him. The boy looks like he can become a real top player."

Sir Alex Hails Kagawa

Sir Alex Ferguson was satisfied with another work-out against Shanghai Shenhua and impressed by man-of-the-match Shinji Kagawa.

The Japanese star scored his first goal since moving from Borussia Dortmund and it was enough to win the Chevrolet China Cup following a 1-0 victory. Kagawa fired home a pull-back by Bebe as United dominated the match in humid conditions.

"I was very pleased," said the boss. "In the second half, we did well and upped the tempo of the game and tried to get more players into the penalty box.

"We were a bit pedantic in the first half but it's been a great work-out. They had to really run a lot because Shanghai were very well organised, as you saw, with 11 men behind the ball all the time. It's not easy to play against but we could've scored a few goals.

"I think we had plenty of possession of the ball and Kagawa was involved in most of that. He was man of the match and he deserved that. He took his goal quite well, although it was a deflection. It was good work by Bebe too, who set it up for him. I think Bebe did really well when he came on.

"Kagawa has settled in well. he's going to be a really good player and he impressed tonight. His awareness of receiving the ball, his speed in turning and how he attacks defenders is an asset to us."

Sir Alex was talking to MUTV and at a press conference.

Friendly: Shanghai Shenhua 0 Man. United 1

Shinji Kagawa scored his first goal in a Manchester United shirt as the Reds beat Shanghai Shenhua 1-0 on Wednesday to claim the Chevrolet China Cup.

Kagawa, who was later named man of the match, blasted home via a deflection on 68 minutes to hand Sir Alex's men victory in the Reds' only Asian pre-season fixture of the DHL 2012 Tour.

Despite the win, the Reds struggled in Shanghai's heat and humidity to play at pace and again looked disjointed for long periods.

Shanghai Shenhua, without former Chelsea stars Didier Drogba or Nicolas Anelka (neither was named in the matchday squad), didn't help matters, mind you. The home side effectively parked the bus for 90 minutes, getting men behind the ball at every opportunity and threatening only on the counter-attack.

In Drogba and Anelka's absence it was left to Joel Griffiths and Song Yan to lead the line for the Chinese outfit against an unfamiliar Reds defence.

Rio Ferdinand started at its heart, with Michael Carrick, more accustomed to a midfield role, alongside him. Frederic Veseli and Robbie Brady patrolled the flanks, just as they did in United's pre-season opener in Durban last week.

Yan had the first shot of the game when he was afforded space to shoot from 20 yards. But it was a tame effort, easily fielded by Anders Lindegaard.

Sir Alex handed summer signing Nick Powell his first start in a United shirt but it was a debut that got off to a bad start when he was caught by a nasty studs-up challenge by Shouting Wang.

Thankfully the 18-year-old was able to continue, although there was more disappointment for Powell on 23 minutes when he dragged the ball wide after he'd sprung the offside trap and latched onto a clever lofted pass by Davide Petrucci.

It was the only clear-cut chance United fashioned in a first half that almost ended disastrously when Lindegaard was forced into a fine save to deny Griffiths just before the break.

It's perhaps unrealistic to expect too much from a squad cobbled together from those first-team and Reserves players not resting from major tournaments, competing in the Olympics or currently injured. And pre-season, remember, is predominantly about gaining match fitness.

Nevertheless, Sir Alex will have been disappointed by the lack of entertainment and cutting-edge play in the final third. Only Petrucci and Kagawa provided any occasional sparks in the opening 45 minutes.

The young Italian didn't re-emerge after the interval, though. He was one of three players (Powell and Lindegaard the others) who made way for Bebe, Ryan Tunnicliffe and goakeeper Sam Johnstone.

Kagawa then saw a shot blocked, Anderson rifled a shot just wide and Shouting Wang's effort looped just over the bar at the other end as the second period began more positively.

Macheda forced a smart save from Shanghai goalkeeper Qui just before the hour mark after a surging run and slide-rule pass from Shinji Kagawa sliced open the Shenhua defence.

Just as he did in Cape Town, the Japanese international operated in the hole behind the centre-forward, moving between the lines and, where possible, making direct runs at the opposition.

One of those led to a shot on target that Qui smothered down to his left before Bebe tested the Shanghai custodian twice in as many minutes from distance.

The pair then combined for United's opener, Bebe beating his full-back before showing good vision to cut the ball back to Kagawa on the penalty spot. His first touch wasn't true, but he made no mistake with the second, hammering the bouncing ball into the net.

Paul Scholes' introduction drew almost as many cheers as Kagawa's goal. Had his downward header, minutes later, bounced into the roof of the net instead of over the bar Shanghai Stadium may have erupted.

The star of the second half, however, was undoubtedly Bebe. United's hero in Cape Town, he caused havoc down the left wing and one shot, a rocket from distance that swerved wickedly at the last moment, may have broken the net but for Qui's intervention.

In the end, Kagawa's strike was enough to settle the contest and send 42,725 fans home happy.

United: Lindegaard (Johnstone 46); Veseli (Vermijl 71), Carrick, Ferdinand, Brady; Valencia (Lingard 71), Powell (Tunnicliffe 46), Anderson (Scholes 71), Petrucci (Bebe 46); Kagawa, Macheda (Hernandez 60)

Kagawa scores the winner

Race For Powell Revealed

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed Manchester United acted swiftly to beat off competition from a host of Premier League clubs in the race to secure Nick Powell's signature.

Powell's 16 goals in 2011/12 helped Crewe Alexandra win promotion to League One (via a play-off final in which the 18-year-old netted brilliantly) and he became the first person in Crewe's history to scoop all five major prizes at the club's end-of-year awards night.

Such a talent was never going to escape the attention of England's biggest clubs and, after watching him in action against Torquay in early May, Sir Alex was determined Powell would sign for Manchester United.

"We sent people to see him a few times after he started scoring a few goals," the United boss told ManUtd.com. "He actually first came on our radar a few years ago when he played against our youth team.

"But we watched him seriously from February. Mike Phelan went to see him a few times and so did our chief scout, Jim Lawlor. My brother Martin also went to see him against Torquay before I went for myself, with Mike, when Crewe played Aldershot."

Powell wasn't at his best that afternoon but Sir Alex saw enough in the teenager to convince him he had a future at Old Trafford.

"We were thinking things over," he recalls. "We'd seen a few other Premier League clubs there at the game - Everton, somebody from Arsenal, somebody from Chelsea (they were very keen on Nick) - so we thought it was best to set the wheels in motion.

"In these situations, I always think about the time we signed Lee Sharpe. We went to watch him and we were impressed. The dilemma was this: do we go home and think things over or do we make a decision and act swiftly? With Lee we moved quickly - I remember we drove a few Torquay directors down to the beach and wouldn't let them out of the car until we'd agreed a deal! - and it paid off.

"Anyway, when Mick and I went to watch Nick Powell we came away and I said: 'He's definitely a player. There's no doubt about that.'"

With Crewe destined for a Wembley play-off, however, the Reds were keen to get the deal done as soon as possible.

"We thought that if we waited until the play-offs the secret would be out, so to speak. All the TV cameras would be focussed 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."

Robin van Persie 'Should Pick Man. United Over Man. City'

Robin van Persie should pick Manchester United over Manchester City, according to former Blues defender Danny Mills and ex-Red Devils star Gary Pallister.

Both Manchester clubs and Juventus have placed bids to buy the Arsenal striker.

But Pallister thinks Van Persie, 28, might suffer from City's squad rotation, while Mills says United are better placed to challenge in Europe.

"Strikers get frustrated at City and I don't think Van Persie would be rotated as much at United," said Pallister.

"Van Persie has proven he is top quality and I don't think he would have any problem establishing a lethal partnership with Wayne Rooney.

"So if it's for footballing reasons, then I think Manchester United would be the ideal place for him."

Dutch striker Van Persie, who scored 37 goals in 48 appearances last season, has a year left on his contract at Arsenal but said he does not plan to sign an extension.

He is now faced with a choice between Italian champions Juventus, Premier League champions City or a United side which lost the title by goal difference on the last day of the season.

Arsenal say all three clubs have been short in their valuation of last season's Premier League's top scorer.

It is understood Arsenal are reluctant to enter formal negotiations until a bid exceeds £20m and they are hopeful of holding out for £25-30m.

Despite City's growing credentials, Mills still regards United as a bigger force in Europe having reached the Champions League final twice in the last four seasons.

"Manchester United are still, in terms of club, bigger on a worldwide basis," Mills told BBC Sport. "Manchester City are still up and coming.

"In terms of challenging for the Champions League, if that's what Van Persie really wants, I think Manchester United would be the better option for him."

Both City and United went out at the group stages of the Champions League last season.

But Mills agrees with Pallister that the size of the Roberto Mancini's squad could count against Van Persie.

And Pallister feels that if Van Persie did choose the red half of Manchester, it would provide the team with the necessary boost after missing out on the title last season.

"Whether it would make the difference [to them winning the title this season], I'm not sure. The goal difference was basically down to one game - the match at Old Trafford against City which cost them dearly, but it should never have gone that far," he said.

"United had the title in their grasp and then they let it go, but I think it will be tight between the two Manchester clubs and maybe Chelsea this year.

"Sir Alex Ferguson has already brought in Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell , so they have strengthened in midfield and I think Ferguson has said he wants to bring in more players.

"City were definitely better with the strength of their squad last year and it had such depth in it as well, that it gave them an advantage. That is something Ferguson has been and will be addressing."

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."

Wootton Maturity Admired

Rio Ferdinand has praised central defensive partner Scott Wootton for his maturity on the DHL tour.

The young stopper was promoted to the first-team squad for the first time after loan stints with Peterborough and Nottingham Forest last term and has not looked out of place alongside the Reds' tour skipper.

"I think he’s done really, really well," said Ferdinand. "He’s a young lad but he has quite a mature head on his shoulders. He reads the game well and he’s unfazed by playing in big stadiums and being on tour or around the first team.

"I think all the young lads have done well. It’s great for them to come in and get an opportunity to impress the manager and the coaching staff. There’s pressure, sure, but the ones who handle it best and show what they can do are the ones who will get the chance to come into the first-team dressing room a lot more during the season. This is a big opportunity for them and they have to grab it with both hands."

Ferdinand's Tour Essentials

United defender Rio Ferdinand has been there, done that and worn the t-shirt when it comes to summer tours with the Reds, having joined the club 10 years ago. We caught up with him to fire a few pre-season questions his way...

What's your favourite thing about pre-season tours?
Just being able to travel to different countries and getting to see other parts of the world. I love trying new food as well.

Is there one city that stands out from all those you've visited?
It's hard to pick one because there are memorable things about all of them. I remember Chicago for being up early most mornings and going to the local coffee shop because the jetlag was so bad! It's probably the worst jetlag I've ever had - we were waking up at random times in the middle of the night and would just go for a walk near the hotel. Korea is another fantastic place to visit, China's enjoyable and I like going to South Africa.

What's the best tour match you've been involved in?
The game that sticks out is when Ruud [van Nistelrooy] scored an unbelievable volley at the Giants Stadium in New York against Juventus [in 2003]. It was a great goal.

What are the three essential items you take on tour?
My phone... my iPad for music, movies, games and Skypeing my family... and my PSP Vita.

What are you reading, watching and listening to on tour?
I've just finished reading a book called Marching Powder and I'm now reading a similar book, which is about prisons. I'm watching This is England again after meeting one of the actors - I want to see which role they play. I'm listening to random songs on my iPad - I downloaded lots of songs before we left.

Who's the best player to sit next to on the plane - and who do you avoid?
I always sit next to Michael Carrick. We just know each other's moods - for example I know when he wants to speak and vice versa, it works really well between us. Who wouldn't I want to sit next to? Ando [Anderson]! I wouldn't want to hear him snore and I wouldn't want to be around when he wakes up after a deep sleep!

Agent Claims Moura Deal Is Off

Lucas Moura's agent Wagner Ribeiro says any move to Manchester United is off as they will not up their bid for the Brazilian ace.

United have lodged an offer for the Sao Paulo midfielder, currently in England with Brazil's Olympic squad.

But with Sao Paulo wanting around £30million, it appears their asking price could be too high.

Ribeiro, one of the leading agents in South America, does not think Moura will be moving anywhere this summer after United's bid was rejected.

"They have reached their limit," Ribeiro told UOL.

"Lucas Moura won't leave. He is happy at Sao Paulo. We have to forget this subject. There is no possibility he leaves now.

"Manchester United made an offer, which was rejected and they won't make another one as they have reached their limit."

Robbo's Respect For Rio

United legend Bryan Robson has paid tribute to Rio Ferdinand as the defender celebrates the 10th anniversary of his signing for the club.

The superb acquisition has looked every inch the world-class defender he promised to be after joining from Leeds in 2002 and is captaining the club on the DHL tour after shrugging off niggling injury problems.

Ambassador Robson, who is also on the trip, agrees with Sir Alex Ferguson that there is still plenty of football left in the experienced centre-back.

"He has had a great career with the club," Robson told ManUtd.com. "There’s no reason why he shouldn’t last a lot longer.

"Rio is a naturally fit lad with no weight on him. He’s a good athlete. He’s been having a few problems with his back but the boss is good in the way he can nurse Rio through that side of it.

"As long as Rio has the desire to want to keep going, there’s no reason why he can’t play quite a few more years, especially being a centre-half."

Vidic Back In Full Training

Nemanja Vidic is back in full training with United but it's not certain the skipper will be fit to start the Barclays Premier League campaign.

The Serbian is back at Carrington and stepping up his bid to return after knee ligament damage suffered last season. Close season surgery for Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans means the Reds are a little light at the heart of the defence but Sir Alex Ferguson is not too concerned yet.

Phil Jones is another option at centre-back as he is getting back into the groove after taking a holiday following Euro 2012.

"It's not 100 per cent that Jonny Evans and Vida will start the season," he stated 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."

As for the midfield, the manager is aware that Darren Fletcher's continued absence is an issue but is pleased to be able to call upon evergreen playmaker Paul Scholes.

"Darren Fletcher has a medical situation that he's trying hard to keep under control," added the boss. "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."

Language No Barrier For Shinji

Shinji Kagawa may not yet speak English but that has been no barrier to understanding what is required of him, says Sir Alex.

The Reds boss is impressed by how quickly his summer signing picks up new techniques in training without the need for translation.

Shinji has vowed to learn English to the best of his ability but, in the meantime, he appears to be having no problems settling in on tour.

"The thing that's impressed me is that every exercise we do on the training ground, he's never needed it to be explained," Sir Alex said of the Japan midfielder.

"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."

Since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund, Kagawa hasn’t taken long to win over his team-mates, either.

"I've been very, very impressed," Rio Ferdinand said. "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."

Boss Confirms Lucas Interest

Sir Alex Ferguson has denied reports that United have agreed a deal to sign Sao Paulo winger Lucas Moura, but confirmed that he is interested in signing the Brazilian international.

The 19-year-old trickster, who is in Brazil's Olympics squad, has been tipped to move to Old Trafford for several weeks, but the boss batted back Sunday night's reports that the move was tied up.

"It's not correct," the United manager told a press conference in Shanghai. "We haven't reached an agreement for the player. We've shown an interest but until such time a we get a deal agreed we can't say he's our player."

Sir Alex confirmed that the club are exploring a variety of options, with a view to bringing in more than one player before the start of the 2012/13 season proper.

"We've signed two players in the summer: Kagawa and Powell," he said. "We think they both have fantastic potential.

"At this moment we're looking at other options in terms of bringing other players in. We're not lying on our backsides doing nothing. We're trying hard to bring other players to the club."

Kiko Backs Pal Petrucci

Kiko Macheda says he has high hopes that team-mate and fellow countryman Davide Petrucci can make an impression on the United first team.

The 20-year-old Italian midfielder came on for the final 20 minutes of Wednesday's opening tour victory against AmaZulu FC for his first appearance in the senior side on the back of a trophy-laden campaign with the Reserves whom he captained last term.

Macheda, who netted the winner in the game in Durban, is delighted to have his good pal on tour and is predicting a bright future for Petrucci at Old Trafford.

"I'm really pleased for Davide," Kiko told ManUtd.com. "He's had a tough time at United with injuries but he did great for the Reserves last season. He deserves to be on tour and was unlucky not to score the other night.

"I've just told him to stay calm and not to put too much pressure on himself, but to enjoy the tour and do his best and just play his game. He is a great player and it's great to see him playing for the first team. I hope he'll do very well in the future."

Doing well for the Reds in the coming season is exactly what Macheda has in mind too.

"It's great to get opportunities on tour and show the manager what you can do. I just hope I can get the opportunities during the season now," he added.

"My aim is to do well on tour and hopefully become a regular in the squad next season. I think I'm ready and I can't wait to start the season."

Rafael Tells Lucas To Join Man. United

Rafael has urged Lucas Moura to join Manchester United and has claimed his fellow Brazilian is excited about the prospect of moving to Old Trafford.

Teenage midfielder Lucas is one of world football's most coveted talents and has reportedly been the subject of an offer from the Red Devils.

His current club Sao Paulo claim to have turned down a bid of €35million (£27m) for the 19-year-old, who is also a target for Inter Milan.
Lucas is presently part of Brazil's squad for the Olympics, alongside Rafael, and it appears the two have spoken about the chance to sign for United.

Full-back Rafael said in the Daily Star Sunday: "Yes, I have told Lucas he should come to Manchester United, of course."

And, when asked whether Lucas was excited about coming to United, Rafael replied: "Yes, yes!"

Sir Alex Ferguson Defends Manchester United Owners

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has defended the club owners' transfer policy as well as his own.

The Glazer family bought United in 2005, but have been unpopular with fans because of concerns over debt levels, and have struggled to match their rivals spending power as a result.

"I am comfortable with the Glazers. They have been great," said Ferguson.
"They have always backed me whenever I have asked them. I have never faced any opposition."

Factions of United supporters have persistently protested against their ownership , which has seen the club rack up huge debts of £423m, but Ferguson has refused to critcise the Glazers financing of the club.

"They have always been as sensible as they can be in terms of financing the club," added Ferguson

"They have to invest in the team to maintain the value of their asset.

"I think there are a whole lot of factions at United that think they own the club. They will always be contentious about whoever owns the club, and that's the way it's always been.

"When the Glazers took over here there was dissatisfaction, so there have always been pockets of supporters who have their views. 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 they've been there and one European Cup."

The Scot also stood by the club's refusal to compete with the likes of Manchester City in the transfer market, believing that his policy of blooding young players is preferable.

Champions City have emerged as the dominant force in English football - thanks to backing from their wealthy Arabic owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan.

However, United's £20m bid for Arsenal's 28-year-old striker Robin van Persie may be a reversal of this policy.

"We can play 18-year-olds because it's part of our history," he added.

"No other clubs can do that. City won't do it. They definitely won't play any young players who have come up through their system."

Scholes Has Faith In Kids

Paul Scholes is backing United's youngsters to justify his faith in their ability after working closely with the Reserves who have been promoted to the DHL tour squad.

The veteran midfielder has always been a huge advocate of Jesse Lingard and played alongside the teenager in midfield against AmaZulu while Marnick Vermijl, Davide Petrucci and Federico Macheda also trained with him last term. The quartet all played a part in the 1-0 victory in Durban and Scholes is fully aware of their potential.

"I'm glad these young players are here," he informed MUTV. "For the first half of last year, I worked with a lot of these players and know what potential they've got and how good they can be.

"They proved that in the Reserves last year and went on to win nearly everything they were in, I think, and now this is a big chance for them to step up to the first team and show what they can do. On the evidence of the game the other night, they all stepped up and played really well."

When asked whether his view was shaped by actually coaching the players himself, Scholes was quick to deflect praise onto Reserves boss Warren Joyce.

"It's no different," he asserted. "I was only helping Warren really for two or three months before I came back playing. But Warren looked after those lads. He's really helped make them become what they are today. They are all good players who work really hard and are desperate to do well. We just need me, Rio and Michael to reinforce that while we're on this trip to make sure they're always at it and ready to play."

Amos Signs Off With Draw

Ben Amos was relieved to see Bebe snatch a 92nd minute equaliser against Ajax Cape Town as he says United would have been "massively disappointed" to lose the second match of the DHL tour.

The keeper, who is flying back to the UK to join Hull City on loan, had no chance with Alcardo van Graan's clever flick from a corner but felt it was important that the Reds responded moments later.

"The first half was obviously much quieter," he told MUTV. "We had a lot of the ball but it was all in the middle of the park and we didn't create much in the first half which we were disappointed about. When the lads grew more tired in the second half, they had more opportunities.

"I had a lot to do with my feet and a couple of saves but obviously it's little things in pre-season that happen. Judging distances and things like that. People talk about match fitness and match fitness for a keeper is about getting your distances and decision-making right, things like that. There were a couple of things like that but I was happy on the whole.

"We'd have been massively disappointed to lose. We're disappointed with a draw anyway with the amount of possession we had. To lose would have been very disappointing. Obviously, we want to get into the winning spirit and mentality so it's good we didn't lose the game."

Amos is looking forward to his move to Hull. "I can't wait," he enthused. "It's a new challenge and one I'm going to throw myself into and get as many games as I can. Then I'll come back here and look to push on."

Sir Alex has explained his thoughts on the loan transfer to the Championship side, soon after the keeper signed a new three-year contract at Old Trafford.

"He needs this challenge now. He's been very patient and did not have a lot of football last year. This move to Steve Bruce's team is at the right time. He's an England Under-21 international so he's got to progress all the time."

Boss Pleased For Bebe

Sir Alex was pleased for Bebe after the forward lashed home the equaliser in the 1-1 draw against Ajax Cape Town.

The Portugal Under-21 international pounced on Marnick Vermijl's cross in stoppage time and showed great composure to take a touch before ramming the ball into the net.

Although Bebe had stressed he was set to go out on loan against next season, the boss hinted he could be retained in Manchester.

"He had his loan at Besiktas and then picked up a bad injury which kept him out for most of the season," said Sir Alex. "That is probably his first game for about eight months, so he will be pleased to be back playing and pleased scored a goal. "We’ll see how the season progresses for him, but it gives me a headache in terms of number of strikers we have there, but that’s not a bad thing."

New Boys Delight Sir Alex

Summer signings Shinji Kagawa and Nick Powell caught Sir Alex Ferguson's eye in the DHL tour match 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 perfomance, 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."

Friendly: Ajax Cape Town 1 Man. United 1

Portuguese winger Bebe fired home in injury-time to snatch a 1-1 draw and spare Manchester United's blushes in the Reds' second pre-season game of the summer.

In a contest that only sparked into life in the final five minutes, Ajax Cape Town pushed Sir Alex's men all the way and almost produced a sensational shock.

Substitute Alcardo Van Graan must have thought he'd won the game when he cheekily flicked in a corner on 85 minutes. But that only prompted a flurry of United attacks and, after chances for both Ryan Tunnicliffe and debutant Nick Powell went begging, Bebe arrived at the back post to smash home Marnick Vermijl's cross and secure a share of the spoils.

The dramatic finish at least went some way to erasing the memory of the previous 85 minutes. Torrential rain earlier in the day no doubt affected the playing surface, but the bigger problem for both teams appeared to be a lack of incision in the final third. The Reds' defence, largely unfamiliar with each other, also understandably lacked cohesion.

Summer signing Shinji Kagawa played 75 minutes and was solid if not spectacular in his first start. He played in an advanced midfield role, tucked behind Javier Hernandez, and showed a number of neat touches. He did, however, spurn a golden chance to open the scoring on the hour-mark when he headed wide after Hernandez found him unmarked just six yards from goal.

The Japanese international was nonetheless a hit with the people of Cape Town, who produced a carnival atmosphere at Green Point Stadium that was, at times, the equal of many top European grounds. Vuvuzelas were present, of course, but so were many of the songs sung regularly inside Old Trafford. And although the majority of supporters were decked out in the red of United, each of the home side's forward forays was also cheered.

Khama Billiat looked especially lively up front and provided Reds centre-back Scott Wootton with a stern test in the first 45 minutes. Billiat will have been disappointed when he dragged wide in the 20th minute and again later when he passed poorly with Ajax storming down the pitch on the counter-attack.

At the other end, United's only real chance of the first half came on 34 minutes when Hernandez met Wootton's cross with a firm header. But the Mexican could only watch as Ajax goalkeeper (and former Liverpool player) Sander Westerveld dived to his right to push the ball around the post.

Michael Carrick's probing pass rolled agonisingly across the six-yard box just before the interval - neither Hernandez nor Antonio Valencia could apply a finish - but in truth it was the home side who could hold their heads highest as they left the pitch at half-time.

The second period began brightly, with Valencia causing havoc down the right flank in the first 15 minutes. No clear-cut chances were created, however, until Kagawa nodded wide from close-range, the goal at his mercy.

With 22 minutes to play, Sir Alex made a quadruple substitution in a change that handed 18-year-old Nick Powell his first taste of Reds action, as well as valuable minutes to Bebe, Ryan Tunnicliffe and Jesse Lingard.

Ben Amos excelled on 75 minutes when he saved smartly down by his near post to deny Thembinkosi Fanteni from 18 yards. It was a moment that sparked a surge of confidence in the Ajax side, who continued to push forward in search of reward. That duly arrived when Van Graan backheeled the ball over Amos for what many fans inside the stadium must have assumed was the winner.

But United never give in and under intense late pressure the locals cracked as Bebe stole the headlines with a dramatic equaliser.

United: Amos; Vermijl, Wootton, Ferdinand, Blackett; Valencia (Tunnicliffe 68), Carrick, Scholes (Powell 68); Anderson (Lingard 68); Kagawa (Berbatov 77), Hernandez (Bebe 68)

Smalling Injury Setback

Chris Smalling looks set to be out for around a further 10 weeks after undergoing an operation on a metatarsal injury.

The defender missed out on a possible place in the Great Britain Olympics squad and the DHL tour but Sir Alex Ferguson initially expected him to be ready for the start of the season.

However, the surgery to fix the toe problem means he will now miss the early part of the campaign.

"He got an injury on the Wednesday and, straight away, we decided to have the operation so he's out," the manager revealed to MUTV. "It's difficult to say with a metatarsal but it could be 10 weeks.

"He's not carrying any luck, the kid, but he's young and we've done the right thing in getting it done immediately and getting him back on the road as quickly as we can."

Smalling is expected to compete with Jonny Evans, Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones for a centre-back slot, along with Nemanja Vidic as soon as the skipper returns to fitness. Evans is already a doubt for the Barclays Premier League opener at Everton while Scott Wootton has played both tour games in the middle alongside Ferdinand.

Sir Alex Keen To Avoid European Errors

Sir Alex Ferguson believes more consistent selection will ensure that Manchester United avoid a repeat of last season's Champions League failure.

Last year, the Old Trafford club failed to progress beyond the group stage for just the third time in 17 years after being involved in three of the previous four finals.

But Ferguson is certain he knows where three-time winners United went wrong.

"Last season we changed the team too much and it backfired," Ferguson said.

United failed to win any of their four Champions League group matches against Benfica or Basel.

They were subsequently knocked out of the Europa League by Athletic Bilbao, while Basel were beaten 7-0 by Bayern Munich as they were eliminated.

Ferguson added: "It definitely won't happen next season - there is no chance of that.

"Over the last few years we have used the group stage as an opportunity to play the youngsters.

"Basel were just an ordinary team and they showed that when they played Bayern."

Ferguson believes Michael Carrick, 31, will play a key role as United look to bounce back from a first campaign without a trophy since 2004-05.

He added: "Carrick is the key to it. If you look at the central midfielders in the Premier League, he can match up against any of them in terms of quality.

"He can read the game and also play in front of the back four."

Manchester United's European campaign to forget

14 September 2011 - Benfica 1-1 Manchester United (Champions League)

27 September 2011 - Manchester United 3-3 Basel

18 October 2011 - Otelul Galati 0-2 Manchester United

2 November 2011 - Manchester United 2-0 Otelul Galati

22 November 2011 - Manchester United 2-2 Benfica

7 December 2011 - Basel 2-1 Manchester United

16 February 2012 - Ajax 0-2 Manchester United (Europa League)

23 February 2012 - Manchester United 1-2 Ajax

8 March 2012 - Manchester United 2-3 Atletic Bilbao

15 March 2012 - Atletic Bilbao 2-1 Manchester United

Amos Excited By Loan Chance At Hull

Ben Amos admits he is looking forward to getting some first-team football at Hull City when he flies home from Manchester United's DHL pre-season tour.

The 22 year-old goalkeeper has already spent some time getting to know the Tigers squad, having joined them on a trip to Portugal. In an exclusive interview with ManUtd.com at a UNICEF project in South Africa, Amos spoke about the prospect of playing for Steve Bruce's Championship side next term.

"Obviously, I had a little taster when I went to Hull's training camp in Portugal," said Amos. "While training was hard, I really felt like I fitted in with all the staff and all the players so I'm really excited to be hopefully getting quite a lot of games under my belt this season.

"I feel like it's exactly what I need to push on to the next level."

Signing a new three-year contract with United in May suggests Amos has a promising future at Old Trafford as he looks to push on and compete with David De Gea and Anders Lindegaard.

"It showed the club's intentions as well as mine," he explained. "You know, if the club had said they didn't see a future for me, if the manager said he didn't see a future for me, I wouldn't have signed it obviously. He's still got belief in me and I still believe I can do it so it's exciting times."

Reds Unveil New Away Kit

United’s new away kit was launched in Cape Town today (Friday 20 July) at The Castle, South Africa’s oldest surviving building, set against Table Mountain.

The 2012/13 kit comprises white shirt, black shorts, and white and black socks – colours that have long been used for the club’s second strip.

The stand-out feature on the new shirt is the Henley Crew collar with red detail and a button closure; this style is part of the club’s heritage but is also a nod to the current youth style in Manchester. The shirt has a black monochromatic crest to complement the design.

United's iconic devil features on the shirt’s outer back neck graphic and also on the shorts, which are a black tonal gingham print in line with the new home shirt design.

The socks are white with a black top and, again, the graphic of the club’s devil stands proud. The socks offer an innovative new design featuring an updated cotton footbed, offering the support and comfort enjoyed by professionals to all who wear them.

The kit combines modern sport and youth style to give the club an iconic new look; it is also Nike's most technologically advanced kit and so aids athlete comfort and performance. Made from ground-breaking recycled polyester, it is the most environmentally friendly kit ever produced by Nike.

Boss Confirms Van Persie Bid

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed making a bid for Arsenal captain Robin van Persie.

The Gunners' skipper has refused to sign a new contract at the Emirates Stadium and is also said to be interesting Juventus and Manchester City.

"Obviously Arsenal have given out the fact that we've made a bid for him," Sir Alex told MUTV.

"We try to keep business as close as possible to us until the moment we conclude a deal. There's no point talking about something that might not happen.

"There are other clubs interested in the player. We've shown an interest and that's where we're at at the moment."

Kagawa Settling In Nicely

Shinji Kagawa has already impressed Sir Alex Ferguson during his short time at Manchester United.

The Japan international made a brief appearance as a substitute against AmaZulu but is set to start Saturday's next DHL tour game with Ajax Cape Town.

"There are similarities to Ji-sung Park. They're both disciplined, they work hard," said the boss at a press conference. "He's been outstanding. His training performances have been very good. He was three or four days behind, but he'll play tomorrow.

"We're very pleased. Those qualities that you can compare him with Ji, they're very much the same. They're good professionals, 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, both footed and had a good goal ratio with Dortmund. He's doing very well and I'm very happy."

The boss will start with his strongest line-up against Ajax Cape Town before giving some of the fringe performers another run-out.

"We'll play our strongest side to begin with tomorrow and introduce some young players later on," he added. "We've brought more than 20 players with us. We want to get them all game-time. We always hope we can finish the tour without any injuries, otherwise it's an issue."

Law On Board With TA

United legend Denis Law was the special guest at the launch of Turkish Airlines' newest route from Edinburgh to Istanbul on Monday, 16 July.

The day also included an added celebration, with the airline revelling in being voted 'The Best Airline in Europe' at the 2012 Skytrax World Airline Awards, picking up the accolade for the second year running.

United’s official airline partner now travels to over 200 destinations, with the new route linking the Scottish capital to the rest of the world via the iconic Turkish city of Istanbul.

The flight will initially run four times a week, though the airline is confident this will increase due to the popularity of Istanbul as a destination hub. From here, passengers can connect to a range of global destinations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai, Beijing, Bangkok, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Delhi, Mumbai, Tel Aviv, Dubai, Narita and Osaka.

Law said: "I love to experience new places and, during my footballing days, I was lucky enough to travel all over the world.

"I think it’s fantastic that Turkish Airlines are launching this new route, giving the Scottish people even more flexibility to travel – and what a great way to travel, with the airline that has been voted Europe’s best two years in a row!

"Scotland has a lot to offer and Edinburgh is a beautiful city, so I also hope people from Turkey and beyond use this new route to visit us too!"

Temel Kotil, CEO of Turkish Airlines, said: "We are very happy to start flying from Edinburgh to more than 200 destinations around the world.

"Our priority is the comfort of our passengers. We have the best in-flight Economy Class meals, for which Turkish Airlines has also won an award, ensuring our passengers a relaxing long-haul journey."

The addition of its Edinburgh route is part of Turkish Airlines’ commitment to expansion throughout the UK and increases its UK portfolio to five airports.

Giggs Can Keep Going

Sir Alex Ferguson believes that next season need not necessarily be Ryan Giggs' last in a United shirt.

The 38-year-old is more than capable of extending his glorious career even longer, although Paul Scholes seems unlikely to play beyond 2013.

Giggs, currently preparing to captain Great Britain in the Olympic warm-up fixture with Brazil in Middlesbrough, is targeting a 13th Barclays Premier League winner's medal next term. Scholes has 10 championships under his belt and performed well last season after coming out of retirement in January.

"If we can get a good season out of Paul, he will be satisfied with himself," said Sir Alex. "On the other hand, Ryan can play for another year after this."

The boss has also set Rio Ferdinand, currently 33, a target of being able to play for another few years at the top level.

When asked if the centre-back will ever represent England again after being excluded from the Euro 2012 squad, Sir Alex replied: "I don't think so. It's not on his agenda either. He wants to ensure he's fit for us.

"As a centre-back, if you stay fit and look after yourself, you should be playing until you are 37."

Reds Launch Cards In Japan

Manchester United have agreed a partnership with APLUS Co., Ltd., a member company of the Shinsei Bank Group, to launch two new credit cards aimed at the club’s supporters in Japan.

Applications for the cards will be accepted via APLUS and Shinsei Bank’s websites from Friday, 20 July, when there will also be application forms in Shinsei Bank’s branches. United will also begin promoting the cards on our official Japanese website, ManUtd.jp, on the same date.

On 20 August the Shinsei Bank Group and United will hold a special launch event in Tokyo, where members of the public will have the opportunity to write messages of support to the Reds players on a giant team shirt. Footage of the event, as well as a detailed image of the shirt, will later be uploaded to the campaign website.

United’s commercial director Richard Arnold said: "Manchester United has always had a fantastic following in Japan, with almost 50 million fans tuning into our games last season.

"Our partnership with Shinsei Bank Group was agreed back in March and we have both been working together to create products that will give our Japanese followers a range of unique incentives as a Manchester United card holder.

"Not only are the cards the only ones in Japan to feature the official Manchester United crest, applicants also have the reassurance of knowing they are provided by one of Japan’s premier banking groups."

Sanjeev Gupta, senior managing executive officer and head of the Individual Group at Shinsei Bank, added: "We are delighted that Manchester United, one of the world’s leading football clubs, has selected Shinsei Bank Group as their partner to launch affiliate credit cards in Japan.

"Shinsei Bank’s Individual Group offers a wide range of financial products and services, ranging from asset management to loans, through our retail banking and consumer finance businesses.

"Launching these new affiliate cards, we will draw upon the synergies between these two businesses to provide attractive services not only to Manchester United supporters but also to the wider community of football fans in Japan."

The cards are available in two varieties: a gold card, 'Manchester United Card GOLD', with an annual fee of 10,500 yen (including tax); and a standard card, 'Manchester United Card', with an annual fee of 1,575 yen (including tax).

Both cards feature a unique design, created especially for the Japanese market, which incorporates the United crest. A special gift – an official United key holder – will be given to the first 2,000 cardholders.

All customers who become cardholders during a special campaign period (20 July – 31 December 2012) will also receive complimentary United branded goods, according to the value of purchases made on the card.

For further details, please visit www.aplus.co.jp/card/mu/aplus/ (Japanese only) from Friday, 20 July.

The Shinsei Bank Group will continue to work with United to launch new initiatives attractive to Reds supporters and the wider football fan community.

Reds Back Unicef Project

UNICEF Ambassador Sir Alex Ferguson and Reds keeper Ben Amos took time out of the DHL pre-season tour on Tuesday to learn about the impact of violence and abuse on the country’s orphans and to call on communities to play an active role in protecting and supporting vulnerable children.

South Africa has close to four million orphans - around 23 per cent of all children - and many of these youngsters have lost one or both parents to HIV. These children often live in extreme poverty and face huge challenges in their everyday lives and suffer from trauma, stress and grief. They are especially vulnerable to abuse, violence and exploitation.

Visiting an ‘Isibinidi’ project in the rural community of Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal, Sir Alex was joined by Amos to see the work of UNICEF and local partner, the National Association of Child and Youth Care Workers (NACCW), in protecting and supporting orphans and vulnerable children. ‘Isibinidi’, which translates as ‘Courage’ in the local Zulu language, is a community-based project that was developed to care for vulnerable children and to break the cycle of abuse and violence that they face, by providing both practical and emotional support.

Specifically, ‘Isibindi’ trains and provides orphan families with individual Child Care Workers. These Child Care Workers conduct regular home visits and provide vital practical support with important everyday activities such as washing, cooking and doing homework, as well providing much needed psycho-social support to children who have been through the traumatic experience of losing their parents and other damaging situations. In addition, ‘Isibindi’ builds and maintains a network of ‘Safe Parks’- areas within communities where children can play safely, study and learn important life skills such as confidence, home management, and HIV prevention.

Whilst at the programme, Sir Alex saw a ‘Safe Park’ in action and spoke with three youngsters who were orphaned when both parents died in quick succession over five years ago.

Talking at Ndwedwe village, Sir Alex said: “As an UNICEF Ambassador and through United's 13-year ‘United for UNICEF’ partnership I’ve visited many projects, but to hear how young people, especially orphans, suffer is always shattering.

“Orphans and other vulnerable children often live in abject poverty. They miss out on the love and care of parents, miss out on the rights and opportunities that every child requires, face abuse, and risk being pushed into a life of crime, forced labour and sexual exploitation. This should not be the case.

“UNICEF is calling on all communities to step up and play a more significant role in protecting all children, especially the most vulnerable, from abuse and violence. Projects like ‘Isibindi’ are making a real difference, but to reach the millions of orphans in South Africa UNICEF needs more support. Manchester United is committed to supporting UNICEF in this cause, and I’m calling on others to do the same."

Amos, who tried his hand at drumming during the visit, echoed his manager's sentiments adding: “The work UNICEF are doing at helping to create safe environments for these kids is fantastic and all the youngsters I met really seemed to enjoy all the activities that are on offer to them. Being able to come and see how these schemes work and the great work UNICEF do in struggling communities is one of the great things about coming on tour – we’re really lucky to have the opportunity to lend our support.”

The visit, the latest event in the pioneering 13-year partnership enabled Sir Alex and Amos to see for themselves the kind of work that has been funded by the ‘United for UNICEF’ partnership which has raised over £2.5 million for UNICEF programmes, benefiting more than 2.2 million children worldwide.

Strudwick Happy With Progress

Manchester United's head of fitness and conditioning Tony Strudwick says preparations for the new 2012/13 campaign are going exactly to plan.

A group of 22 players are currently honing their fitness on the first part of United’s DHL pre-season tour of South Africa and China. The Reds claimed victory in the opening tour match on Wednesday night in Durban against AmaZulu FC and are now preparing for two more friendlies against Ajax Cape Town on Saturday and Shanghai Shenhua next Wednesday.

Strudwick is pleased with the squad’s progress so far and insists the tour will be a great learning curve, on and off the pitch, for the host of young players in the travelling party.

“Things are going well,” Strudwick told ManUtd.com. “We had a good week and a half at Carrington when many of the players came back and they got straight into some ball work which is part of our philosophy. This week the games come into play and take precedence really.

“In and around the matches there are opportunities to top the players up with training but the target in these two weeks is to get the players exposed to match minutes with the main focus being on getting the senior players who are on tour ready for that first match against Everton on 20 August. That’s where we’re at the moment.

“There’s good energy within the group we have with us. Obviously some are away at the Olympics while the European Championship players aren’t back yet, but this tour has given the youngsters an opportunity to come in and do well and they’ve certainly done that so far. Robbie Brady and Jesse Lingard, for example, have come in and stepped up to the plate and shown they’re competent and assured at this level and that’s good to see.

“Another important part of the tour is to expose the young players, and the new lads, to what it is to be a Manchester United player and the experience that comes with travelling with the club around the world. You can tell all the lads are enjoying the tour and they’re embracing all the extra bits that come along on the trip such as the commercial activities the players get involved in. It’s a good learning curve, full stop.”

Veseli Eyes Improvement

Frederic Veseli is pleased to get an appearance for the first team under his belt, even though he admits he is still learning how to adapt to playing right-back.

The Swiss youngster, signed in January from Manchester City, made his name in the centre of defence but has been used in other positions in the Reserves since joining United. Nonetheless, injury limited his involvement last term so it was a huge step up to be starting against AmaZulu in front of around 50,000 fans in Durban.

"It feels good," Veseli told MUTV afterwards. "It's a big crowd and I was playing with the first team so I'm really happy.

"I've always been playing centre-half but, of course, I must be able to play in different positions. It's an unusual position for me [right-back] but I've played there before. There are still some points I need to improve, of course, and get better.

"It's different on the right, like getting forward, and I need to improve on a lot of stuff but it's always good experience to play.

"The fans cheered us on more than they did the home team and that's always good to see. It's a good experience as there is a lot I can learn from playing and training with the first team. I can get used to how it works and how to get prepared for games. I'm looking forward to the next game."

Sir Alex: Durban Star May Go

Sir Alex Ferguson praised Dimitar Berbatov's performance after Manchester United's satisfying pre-season tour win against AmaZulu - but admitted the Bulgarian has designs on a departure.

Berbatov produced an eye-catching display in Durban, including providing the assist for Federico Macheda's winning goal, but his future could still be away from Old Trafford. The manager has reiterated he wants to be fair to his number nine, who has recently struggled to hold down a regular place in the Reds line-up.

"I don't need to herald Dimitar's abilities," said Sir Alex. "He's a fantastic talent. He didn't get the amount of football he wanted last season. It's difficult for him at his age to accept second place in the forward line. The likes of Rooney, Chicharito and Welbeck were all in front of him last season. It's been difficult. But in fairness to him today he applied himself well and did very well with the first goal.

"The boy obviously wants to leave. That's a different matter. I'm easy about it. If he stays, I'll be happy. If somebody comes in for him and Dimitar wants to leave, we'll assess it."

Sir Alex also spoke about new boy Shinji Kagawa, who clocked up only a few minutes in his first appearance since arriving from Borussia Dortmund. The Japanese star would have had more, had the ball gone out of play sooner.

"I never thought the boy was going to come on!" said Sir Alex. "He must have been standing on the touchline for 10 minutes. The ball never seemed to go out when we wanted it to! He only came on because of Chicharito having cramp. But I think he'll probably start on Saturday."

As for the game itself, the boss was pleased with the positives after a physically-challenging match in Durban.

"We're satisfied," he added. "We always like to win our first game. It was a good work-out for us. In the second half, I thought AmaZulu increased their aggression and got closer to us, making it more difficult.

"In general, we showed some signs of tiredness towards the end, but we expect that in the first game of the tour. We played some good football and scored a nice goal. It was a good match."

Lingard's Debut Delight

Jesse Lingard was thrilled to make his debut in United's 1-0 win against AmaZulu.

The youngster turned in an extremely promising performance alongside Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes in midfield that suggests he could feel at home in the first team.

"It was an excellent experience," he told MUTV afterwards, clearly still bubbling with enthusiasm. "Training and playing with them [the first team] is a great, new experience for me and hopefully I can carry it on. It's all come so quickly, you know, and I've developed better than everyone assumed I would and kicked on from there.

"It's been great. It just tops it off making my debut for Manchester United. There's nothing better really.

"I had to treat it like a normal game and ignore the fans and the stadium. I had to concentrate on what I do best. It's better having your mates with you to guide you on - I've been playing with them for years so it's really good."

The presence of Carrick and Scholes also went a long way to help him settle quickly into the groove.

"They've been in the game a long time and for those two to speak to you the way they do, you get tips like that and it's a good learning curve for me," the Warrington-born midfielder added. "I'll take that into my game.

"Hopefully, this season the boss will keep me with the first team in training and take me to games and gives me good experience."