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."