Title Review: March 2013

ManUtd.com’s review of the 20th title rumbles on to March...

Overview: Beginning with a bang, United produced a clinical display to seal a 4-0 victory over Norwich. Shinji Kagawa’s hat-trick supplied a personal highlight for the Japanese star. Jubilation was admittedly short-lived as the Reds exited Europe via a contentious defeat to Real Madrid before drawing with Chelsea in the FA Cup. Thankfully, Sir Alex rallied the troops and consecutive 1-0 wins over Reading and Sunderland edged the championship crown ever closer.

Key moment: After Manchester City lost 2-0 at Everton in the midday kick-off, the onus was on United to take advantage against Reading. It was far from a classic, but Wayne Rooney’s solitary goal was enough to secure a narrow victory and move the Reds 15 points clear. Meanwhile, Ryan Giggs signed a contract extension.

Star man: David De Gea was ManUtd.com’s player of the month, keeping three clean sheets in as many top-flight matches while also impressing in Europe and the FA Cup. Wayne Rooney was influential, too, netting a thunderbolt against the Canaries and starring against the managerless Royals.

State of play: With just eight games left to play, Sir Alex’s men were 15 points clear of Roberto Mancini’s flagging champions ahead of a potentially decisive Manchester derby.

Exclusive Interview: De Gea

David De Gea was interviewed for Old Trafford's 12th Man - the official newsletter for all season-ticket holders..

What do you like best about playing in the English Premier League?
Playing for United, one of the greatest clubs in the world, is always a source of pride to me. Every time I pull the shirt on, I'm pulling on the history of this club.

How do you like to relax away from football?
I spend time at home, with my family. I watch a lot of films and like to play video games with my friends. Normal stuff, really, but I'm not in my house all the time. I often go shopping, go for a walk and go into the city centre. I put the subtitles on for English films so I can distinguish better what they're saying, which helps improve my English.

How often do you get together with your family and friends?
Well, I relax with my family a lot. I go out with friends, go bowling, have a meal. I relax and have a good time.

If you weren't a footballer what would you be?
All I can remember is wanting to be a footballer. It's all I've ever wanted to do and it's hard for me to even consider doing anything else. I guess if football wasn't an option, I would have concentrated a bit harder at school and put my mind to my studies. I would probably have gone to university and tried to attain a degree related to sport. I also enjoyed history at school, learning about important dates and events.

As a young boy, how did you first get involved with football?
I played with my father from a very young age. The first thing I remember is playing football in my home our outside. It was all I did! I joined Atletico Madrid's Academy when I was young.

I was around five or six years old and just a small boy.

Goalkeepers sometimes score goals. Although you've never scored a goal professionally, have you ever scored in a match as a goalkeeper?
Not as a keeper but, as a youngster, I played as an outfield player. I was a forward and scored lots of goals but eventually settled on being a goalkeeper. I think I've always liked to pass the ball and dribble - in the Spain under-age teams, I used to practise with the ball at my feet. And, at a club like United, it's important to be able to support the team in every way.

Neville: English Core Is Key

Gary Neville believes it is imperative for Manchester United to have a nucleus of young English players, particularly at this time of transition at Old Trafford.

Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Tom Cleverley and Danny Welbeck were all first-team regulars during the 2012/13 title-winning season, clocking up an impressive 118 appearances between them. And having noted their progression, Neville sees a bright future ahead.

However, after a couple of encouraging campaigns, the Reds legend thinks the talented group must now step up and cement starting places under new manager David Moyes, citing the recent advancements made by David De Gea, Jonny Evans and Rafael da Silva as examples.

“It is critical to have young English players at the club who are coming through and have good potential,” Gary told ManUtd.com. “Those players need to develop and become better. They are now champions after winning the title; they should gain confidence from that and want to go again.

“They should also feel more mature after the experience of losing the title last year and winning it back this season. They are two years on and this third season is where they really need to perform, kick on and become Manchester United players.

“There is a pressure on young players but in the first two years you are given a lot of leeway because you are young. Next year, you are getting to that 22 or 23 age and some of them will need to perform on a far more consistent basis, getting into the starting team more regularly.

“We have seen Jonny Evans do it in some ways, other players like Rafael have done it after being in and out for a couple of seasons and now he is number one. David De Gea, for instance, was swapping with Anders Lindegaard and now he is the number one.

“We have seen young players take that step and now it is for Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley to move into that position where they are full-time players.”

In his current role as an England coach, Neville is well-placed to analyse United’s batch of young Lions and, encouragingly, the Treble winner has noticed a clear increase in confidence and experience every time they report for international duties.

“They grow each time and you notice the maturity in them. Welbeck’s growth has been incredible, we’ve not seen too much of Phil Jones with England, Chris played well in Montenegro and Tom has done really well, playing a part in nearly every game.

“All of the young players are well thought of, not just at Manchester United but other clubs at well. You just hope that they can play more consistent football to become top England players as well.”

Title Review: February 2013

ManUtd.com's review of the Reds' enthralling run to a 20th title continues...

Overview: Four wins from four leauge games: you can't ask for much more. The Reds' charge towards a 20th title gathered pace with home wins over Everton and Reading sandwiched between victories at Fulham and QPR. Sir Alex's men weren't exactly free-scoring but the team's professionalism was admirable, particularly when faced with Everton – spoilers of the 2011/12 campaign – at OT.

Key moment: Memories of opening-day defeat at Goodison Park and the previous season's crushing 4-4 draw were dredged up in the days preceding Everton's visit, but United, marshalled superbly by Nemanja Vidic at the back, showed steely determination to collect all three points. And all with the lingering prospect of a Champions League trip to Madrid three days later.

Star man: February's push for the title was built on solid foundations at the back and David De Gea was key. The Spanish goalkeeper kept three clean sheets in the four league games, making superb stops in each match to preserve United's advantage.

State of play: Sir Alex's men finished February top of the league on 68 points, 12 points clear of Manchester City, who suffered a surprise defeat away at Southampton.

Fellaini: No Moyes Contact

Everton star Marouane Fellaini insists that former boss David Moyes has not talked to him about the prospect of joining him at Manchester United.

Moyes has been strongly linked with a move for the Belgium international, but Fellaini insists that the subject has never been discussed.

The midfielder, who is currently on international duty with his country, insists that he has not spoken with new United boss Moyes.

"He got a good offer and I understood why he accepted it," said Fellaini.

"But he never told me he planned to take me to United. Rumours are part of football and I take them with a pinch of salt.

"Everyone likes that question about Manchester United, but I know of nothing."

The 25-year-old added: "My destiny is with Everton, it's as simple as that.

"We're talking about one of the biggest clubs in England, the framework is in place and the manager's departure doesn't change anything.

"I do miss playing in the Champions League but we deserved to win a place in it this year.

"We were unlucky Spurs had a good season as well. But it's clear I am very happy where I am. Everything else is waffle."

Johnsen Reassures Jones

Ronny Johnsen has told Phil Jones not to be concerned that his versatility could end up being a handicap to his long-term career.

Jones came on as a substitute for England in the 1-1 draw with Republic of Ireland at Wembley on Wednesday and filled in at right-back but was also used in midfield and the centre of defence, his favoured position, by the champions last term.

England coach Roy Hodgson and retiring United chief Sir Alex Ferguson have both stressed that they feel the 21-year-old will mature into a top-class centre-back and Johnsen, who also switched roles regularly during his successful time at Old Trafford, feels there is no problem with being a utility man - particularly at his tender age.

Speaking ahead of his involvement in the Red Heart United Legends clash against Real Madrid on Sunday, which still has tickets available, the Norwegian had words of reassurance for Jones.

"The gaffer used to like me me playing in midfield, especially when 'Keano' [Roy Keane] was out with injury," he told ManUtd.com. "But I played in defence, at the back, a lot and enjoyed it. It's actually more common now [performing both roles].

"Phil doesn't need to be worried. Anyway, I think he benefits from it in the end. He's so young he can benefit from being versatile and he can learn from playing a little bit everywhere.

"I played centre-forward in the national team when I was 25 but was then, more or less, just a defensive player. You learn a little bit from every position you play in so it's something that you can only benefit from. He is obviously so young and has got so many years ahead of him that it is all good for his career."

Johnsen, who was part of the Treble-winning side in 1999, believes players need to be adaptable to change positions in the modern game.

"I think it's how things work at the minute," he opined. "Some clubs have to change things around a bit and look for a peak from the players they have got. Sometimes, you just have to adapt and play in the position where the manager wants you to play.

"If you're positive and you just think: 'I will benefit from this and learn a little bit from playing on this side or elsewhere'. Teamwise, I think that's the way the modern game is and especially the modern player as well."

Crystal Palace Not Expecting Loan Move For Zaha

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish says there are no plans to try to get winger Wilfried Zaha back on loan from Manchester United.

Zaha, 20, signed for United in January but stayed on at Palace to help them win promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-off final.

"Wilfried deserves his chance to go to Manchester United with a view to making it there," Parish told BBC Radio 4.

"I think he is good enough and will figure in their first team."

Parish added: "We are certainly not thinking about loaning him back.

"We will be planning for life without him. If he does get loaned out to another Premier League club then obviously we would want to be in the mix."

England international Zaha scored twice in the Championship play-off semi-final against Brighton and won the penalty in the final against Watford, which Kevin Phillips scored to secure the Eagles their lucrative ticket back into the top flight.

Thiago Plays Down Manchester United Link

Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara has refused to be drawn on rumours that Manchester United are considering a summer move for his services.

The Red Devils have been linked with a swoop for the 22-year-old, but he has insisted that he will not consider his future until after the upcoming Under-21 European Championship.

"I just live my life and I am very happy," the Spain international told reporters.

"I enjoy it in Barcelona because I have lived through some great times but we will see what happens after the Euros.

"Any player is used to living with rumours about him and they just cannot affect you."

Thiago's buy-out clause at Camp Nou is understood to have dropped from €90million to €18million after he failed to play 30 minutes or more in 60 per cent of Barca's games this season.

United's interest prompted goalkeeper David de Gea to state that he would like his Spain Under-21 team-mate to join him at Old Trafford, but Thiago brushed off the comments.

"All players want the best players in their team. I could say I hope that he comes to Barca in the same way he says things about me," he added.

"I just think he was having a bit of fun and not too much should be read into it."

Title Review: January 2013

ManUtd.com's review of the 20th title moves on to January...

Overview The year began with three wins and a draw, although the Reds had to fight for points against Liverpool, Tottenham and Southampton. Robin van Persie netted in three of the four games, including twice against Wigan in a 4-0 win. Nemanja Vidic’s fortuitous goal proved the difference against Liverpool while the Spurs game was almost postponed due to snow. In the end, a 90th-minute concession meant the 1-1 draw felt more like defeat. The month ended with Southampton taking the lead at OT and dominating the second half; thankfully, Wayne Rooney’s brace gave United enough to hang on to.

Key moment In a game dubbed the “battle of the strikers”, Robin van Persie trumped Luis Suarez when Liverpool came to OT. The Dutchman netted United’s opener to further endear himself to fans and then played a key role in United’s second, delivering the free-kick from which Nemanja Vidic scored.

Star man Who else? RvP scored four goals in four league games, including one against United’s biggest rivals and a terrific curling effort at Wigan that went close to nudging his FA Cup strike against West Ham out of top spot in ManUtd.com’s Goal of the Month poll.

State of play While only ever hitting top gear on New Year’s Day, United’s January results kept the Reds’ title charge ticking over.

Edwin Salutes De Gea

Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has praised David De Gea’s performances throughout the 2012/13 campaign, citing his Spanish successor as an integral player at Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old goalkeeper enjoyed a remarkable second season in England, winning his first Barclays Premier League title and earning a place in the PFA Team of the Year. He also finished third – behind Robin van Persie and Michael Carrick – in the fan-voted Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.

And van der Sar, whose own retirement from football preceded De Gea’s arrival in 2011, is delighted to have seen his replacement improve and flourish so much in M16. The Dutchman, who will return to Old Trafford this Sunday 2 June to play in the Red Heart United charity match against Real Madrid, believes De Gea's first-team recall in December was a turning point in his career.

“I think that is the way everybody has seen it,” Edwin exclusively told ManUtd.com. “The first half of the season and the year before, there were some mixed feelings and the gaffer changed it up a little bit to play Anders Lindegaard for three or four games.

“But then David came back in and we stuck with him. From that point, his performances grew and he became more important to the team all of the time. It has been a good turn around for him in terms of his performances and his own self-confidence in being the Manchester United goalkeeper.

“Of course, the PFA recognition was great but the main thing you want is to win the Premier League. Personal accolades are nice but the main thing is winning something with the team. That was always my preferred choice.

“As long as your team-mates are happy with you and your manager plays you every week, those are the best accolades you can get. Of course, after you win the league it is nice to look at individual trophies, but the team always comes first.”

With regards to what the future holds for De Gea and United, van der Sar is adamant that domestic dominance must always be prioritised, although he admits he would like to see the Reds return to Europe’s top table following a couple of disappointing campaigns in the UEFA Champions League.

“I think for the whole team the Premier League is always important but the last two years have been disappointing in Europe,” Edwin explained.

“So I think the next step for the whole club, and for David, is to establish themselves among the elite in Europe. In five years, we reached three finals, a semi-final and a quarter-final so it would be nice to reach that level again.”

Crystal Palace Are Likey To Try And Bring Wilfried Zaha Back On Loan Next Term

Crystal Palace co-chairman Martin Long has not given up hope of trying to persuade Manchester United to loan Wilfried Zaha back to Selhurst Park next season.

Zaha was signed by United in a £15million deal in January, before returning to Palace on loan to spend the remainder of the season in the Championship.

He is now due to join up with his new United team-mates at Old Trafford after helping Palace to a 1-0 victory over Watford in the Championship play-off final.

The winger's dart into the Hornets penalty area in the 15th minute of extra time ended with Marco Cassetti bringing him down before Kevin Phillips dispatched the resulting spot-kick.

And Long hopes United will be tempted to release Zaha to Palace as the Premier League new boys may be able to provide regular game time for the player following the Wembley success.

Long said: "They might want him to get experience in the Premier League playing for us rather than maybe not playing for them. I don't know, of course.

"We probably will ask."

Palace manager Ian Holloway also revealed after the match at Wembley that he would love to have Zaha back at his disposal next season, although he knows David Moyes will probably want to keep the young forward.

"I think he (Moyes) would be silly to give me him back. Now we're up it might be realistic but who knows?

"He will know the task he's got. Mine will be staying up, his will be winning every week. Good luck to him and good luck to us."

Long's co-chairman, Steve Parish, also feels that Zaha will now stay at United and backed him to play a key role under Moyes.

He said: "I think Wilf should go and have his chance with Manchester United. I think he has earned that. We certainly won't be making representation.

"I would hate him to go anywhere else if that was what they were going to do. Me, personally, I think he is good enough for their side."

Neville Excited By New Era

Club legend and ambassador Gary Neville speaks to ManUtd.com about United's future under David Moyes and how next season will be a big test for a lot of clubs in the Barclays Premier League…

Is this going to be one of the biggest pre-seasons we’ve known for a while because of Sir Alex's departure?
I think it will be a huge pre-season for the Premier League. A number of clubs will be wanting to start strongly. Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal… and Spurs will want to do everything they can to hold onto Bale and push forward themselves. So I think we will have one of the most interesting pre-seasons we’ve ever had and probably the most interesting start to a season that we’ll have ever had; there will be new managers at three of the top clubs (United, City, Chelsea) as a minimum.

Will there be extra motivation for our players to impress during pre-season because they are playing for a new manager?
Absolutely. They should see it as a new challenge and an important challenge. I know from speaking to other people in football that since Sir Alex announced his retirement other clubs have already been lifted by the fact he is no longer around. The players should see that as a slight on them and say ‘hang on, do you think we can’t go out on that pitch and perform without our manager?’ That is a challenge in itself and ultimately the players and David Moyes will need to respond to that. It won’t be a bed of roses – there will be ups and downs as there always is and there has been over the last 26 or so years. There will be pressure moments in the coming season when people will say ‘oh, it’s not the same.’ But it’s too easy to say that. Everybody is waiting to see how this post-Sir Alex Ferguson era is going to work. The club have had it before with Sir Matt but everyone here will stick together through it all and the fans will do the same.

Has the current squad been given the credit it deserves for winning the league?
When you’re at Manchester United and you’ve had a manager who has built four great teams – ’94, ’99, 2008 and you can now argue this one that has won the league - people are always going to compare teams and look back; I do it myself sometimes. The most important thing to say about this team is it’s on an upward curve. You’ve got players like De Gea, Rafael, Evans, Smalling, Jones, Cleverley, Welbeck and Hernandez to name eight players who are still young and haven’t reached anywhere near their peak. You’ve also got a mix of players in the middle who are at their peak, then you’ve got the experienced lads at the other end. This team has still not reached its potential. I’m sure there will be additions to the squad this summer so you’re talking about a team on the up. I think Chelsea are going the same way. They’re going to be a big danger next season. I think City have got some manipulating of their squad to do – there will be some toing and froing there. I think United are in a good place. Do they get the credit they deserve? You only get that by repeating success – it’s about winning, winning and winning again.

Sir Alex said at his final press conference that it was always the plan to have the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Schoes and Nicky Butt as part of the coaching structure – how important will their experience and influence be going forward?
You can’t fail when you have people who love the football club and who are knowledgeable, intelligent and passionate about the game. And those three characters are all of the above. I’ve watched a lot of football, particularly in the last two years since I finished playing and listened to a lot of people at different clubs and they’re always searching for good types of people to be involved. Ones they can trust and who love and care for a club and that is what you have with Ryan, Paul and Nicky, all of whom have been around the place for so long.

Have you ever been more excited for the start of a new season?
No! There was an incredible end to this season with all the retirements and Sir Alex in particular retiring. But in some ways it wasn’t the most exciting Premier League season we’ve had with United winning the league with four games left. The season before was ridiculous in terms of excitement because of what happened on the last day – you’ll never see anything like that ever again. But I think the quality was just a little bit below that this season, not at United but just generally throughout the league. The German league, as an example, is that little step above us at the moment. We will get back there though. It’s going to be a big summer and a big season - we’ll see players grow and top players will be added to various squads. When you look at the existing squads that the top four or five clubs have and the fact that two or three additions will come into each I think we’ll be talking about them being some of the best teams in Europe again next season. I’m excited because there is a lot more uncertainty about what’s going to happen next season than there ever has been before - next season is going to be a huge challenge for every club in their own way.

Henriquez Willing To Return To Wigan On Loan Next Season

Manchester United striker Angelo Henriquez has refused to rule out the prospect of taking in a second loan spell at Wigan Athletic.

The Chilean frontman was allowed to link up with the Latics in January, having completed a switch to England in the summer of 2012.

It was intended that a spell away from Old Trafford would allow him to pick up useful Premier League experience.

Henriquez was, however, to find game time hard to come by at Wigan, as they became embroiled in an ultimately unsuccessful relegation battle.

It could be that a return to the DW Stadium next season would see the 19-year-old involved on a more regular basis, with the Latics preparing for life back in the Championship.

He claims he would be willing to consider such a move, with it important for him to get minutes under his belt and show United - who will be under the management of David Moyes next season - what he is capable of.

"I didn't play a lot of football, which was obviously the target when I arrived in January," Henriquez said in the Wigan Evening Post.

"But just being involved with a Premier League team, living the experience of first team football and learning from other players and other teams has been very good.

"I have enjoyed my time here and I wouldn't rule out coming here again if that is a possibility. Who knows?

"You always improve and pick up new things from new managers and new players. That was the point of the whole exercise, and I hope to show what I've learned when I return to Old Trafford."

Jones Wants Full Pre-season

Phil Jones has stressed the importance of getting a full pre-season under his belt as he looks ahead to going on tour with Manchester United.

The England international is in Roy Hodgson's squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Republic of Ireland (Wednesday) and Brazil (next Sunday, 2 June) and is determined to work hard when he returns to work with the Reds following the summer break.

Injury hampered his progress at the start of last term before he ended the campaign strongly and became something of a regular starter in the final United sides selected by Sir Alex Ferguson.

When asked by Inside United if he was focusing on going on the club's July tour of Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong, the versatile defender replied: "Definitely. That's important for me for the next season coming up.

"I think I've only had one pre-season and that was in my first season here so it's important I get a full pre-season under my belt. I need to get fitter and stronger and mentally prepare myself for what will be another tough season again." There was some talk that Jones would be considered for England's Under-21 European Championship squad as he is still eligible for that level. However, the former Blackburn youngster is now considered part of the senior set-up and can look back fondly on his appearance in the finals a couple of years ago.

Although Jones impressed alongside Chris Smalling on a personal level at the heart of the defence, Stuart Pearce's side bowed out in the group stages when Czech Republic scored twice late on to steal second spot in the table. Danny Welbeck netted both of his country's goals, including the equaliser against eventual winners Spain.

"It was a great experience in the Under-21s and I loved every minute of it," Jones enthused. "It's a fantastic tournament but we didn't do too well in it. We still had some great players and hopefully they will go on and win it this year."

Wilfried Zaha is United's sole representative in Pearce's squad for the tournament in Israel, which starts on 5 June. England face the host nation, Norway and Italy in Group A.

Gill Elected To UEFA Role

Manchester United chief executive David Gill has been elected to the UEFA executive committee.

Gill was elected unopposed, alongside seven others, for one of eight available seats for a four-year term at Friday's UEFA Congress in London.

The club's executive vice chairman Ed Woodward told ManUtd.com: "I'm delighted David has secured a place on UEFA's Executive Committee.

"He will make an excellent contribution to the shape and running of European football."

Gill will step down as the Reds' chief executive on 30 June after 10 years in charge, but will remain on the club board as a director.

Van Der Sar: Moyes Faces Tough Task

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar believes David Moyes faces an almost impossible task in trying to fill the shoes of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Van der Sar, who won four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League during his six-year spell at Old Trafford, also revealed that he spoke to former manager Ferguson ahead of his retirement.

"I spoke to Sir Alex over an unrelated matter about two weeks before," said Van der Sar.

"He is a great man and a great manager at a fantastic club.

"I wish him the best of luck and David Moyes also because it is almost an impossible job to step into.

"I am sure the manager and the players and the board are fully behind him. That is all you can ask for."

However, Van der Sar feels Moyes has one significant advantage in the number of United players, past and present, with vast experience of winning trophies, who will still be around the club.

"It is nice if you have players who win," he added.

"That is part of the history of Manchester United. Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra and Michael Carrick.

"It is good for any manager to have those types of players in their dressing room.

"You are trying to improve, changing players and filling in the gaps, but you don't have to build a new team all the time."

No Excuses For Whiteside

Norman Whiteside believes opportunities still exist for teenagers to make their mark at the highest level as they are being given the best grounding at the top clubs.

The former United hero, who made his debut as a 16-year-old and played in the 1982 World Cup finals for Northern Ireland after his following birthday, does appreciate that an influx of foreign signings has affected the number of youth products being blooded in the Barclays Premier League in recent years.

However, speaking to promote the Charity Challenge at Carrington on 22 June, he believes those with the highest ability levels will still rise to the top.

When asked by ManUtd.com if it's harder for Academy prospects to graduate at a young age because of the physical demands of the Premier League, Whiteside replied: "No, actually I don't. It's better in today's game because of the training and the facilities.

"Every team, and certainly the top teams, have got Academies with unbelievable facilities. I'm a podiatrist, so people like that, dietitians and the top physios. All the big clubs have got the best environment where you can manage youngsters coming through so they've got no excuses in my book.

"Either you're good enough to get in the team or you're not. It's as simple as that."

While Sir Alex Ferguson was often happy to promote youth, and included 18-year-old Adnan Januzaj on the bench for his final game in charge at West Brom, that has not always been the case at other clubs striving to match the success of the champions.

"I think the problem in getting youngsters coming through is that clubs want instant success," Whiteside explained to ManUtd.com. "They want to win things yesterday not tomorrow and I think it's harder for kids coming through.

"They've got to be exceptional today to get into a team at 16 or 17. It can be done - don't get me wrong - but big clubs and other clubs with money are looking to Europe. Maybe they're not buying top-class European players but looking to Scandinavia and elsewhere and that's blocking kids from coming through in England.

"I'd like to see more kids being given a chance in the Premier League and a stop to buying too many people from foreign countries. While I'm all for signing big players as I want to see great football and the best players, if they're buying mediocre players from Europe then they are blocking the youngsters from coming through. I think they should target youngsters and give them more of a chance."

Whiteside still has fond memories of breaking into the United team while still a schoolboy.

"I'd only played 100 minutes before the World Cup," he recalled. "I had 12 minutes at Brighton and came on as a substitute. One thing I always say I remember is that I was on £16 a week when I came on for my debut.

"For 12 minutes' worth, as we won the game 1-0, I had an £800 win bonus so it was a fantastic day for me. £800, 30 years ago, was a lot of money, as it is today.

"I was 17 at the World Cup and beat Pele's youngest-player record so that was a big high as well."

Eye-opener For Butt

Nicky Butt admits it has been an eye-opening experience returning to the club to work in a coaching capacity alongside Warren Joyce.

The Treble-winning midfielder saw his young charges lift the Barclays Under-21 Premier League trophy in dramatic circumstances at Old Trafford on Monday and is clearly learning the ropes under Joyce.

Although there is a wealth of talent at that level within the club, Butt has also insisted that making the grade at Old Trafford is just as much about character as raw ability.

"It's been an eye-opener for me this year starting with Warren's Under-21s," he told MUTV. "I'd been at the club a long time and I forgot what the Reserves were like when I was a boy here.

"You have players coming and going and you have to do what is right by the lads when the time comes for them to go out on loan. Warren will speak to the manager and send them out on loan to try and improve them. That's what the club is all about - getting the lads better and better and giving them the chance to play against older players, which we think is good, and it's a learning curve for them.

"I'm enjoying it a lot. I'm inexperienced so I've come along with Warren to learn from him and the other coaches at the club. It's totally different to what I expected and it's hard work. When you do your badges, it's all about how to prepare for the day ahead but it's impossible to do that when it changes just like that. Five minutes before training, you can be three or four players down and it's an eye-opener. You watch how all the coaches adapt so quickly and it's a learning curve for me."

Plenty of those who impressed in the win against Spurs at Old Trafford will be striving to push into David Moyes' first-team plans.

"Playing for United, you have got to have the temperament, personality and be right off the field as well," he explained. "To be a top player for United, you have got to have more than ability. It's about drive, professionalism and you must want it more than anything in the world. Hopefully, we're going to get some players through pretty soon."

Butt is also sure that Sir Alex Ferguson will maintain a healthy level of interest in the younger players at the club despite moving into retirement.

"I think it's very important not to forget that he will still have an impact on the club," insisted the ex-England international. "The manager will be knocking on his door asking for his opinion and he will still be looking at the younger set-up, maybe even more so now he has the time to do that.

"He's still got a massive part to play and nobody should underestimate that. The way he speaks about the new manager means he's very confident in him. We've got to give him all the opportunity we can to become the great manager that Sir Alex was."

Welbeck Eyes Central Role

Danny Welbeck has revealed his long-term aim is to nail down a central striking position for David Moyes' United.

The forward is likely to be in contention for a centre-forward position in England's upcoming friendlies against Republic of Ireland and Brazil but spent much of last season in a wider role for the Reds.

It limited his goal output to just two, although he did memorably net in the draw at Real Madrid and was a key contributor the title-winning team, performing a number of tactical functions and often offering pace and energy, as well as defending from the front.

Welbeck's other strike was against Stoke at league level but he scored three times for England during the campaign and Sir Alex Ferguson accepted that he always looks likely to hit the target when representing his country and leading the line.

"This season has been the most number of matches I have played and my performances have been a lot more consistent but the goals return has not been good at all," the 22-year-old admitted to MUTV recently.

"I do feel if, I can get a better goals return, I will be flying. I want to be up front and scoring goals.

"If I am playing on the wings, I still want to score more goals but, preferably, I will be up front and scoring goals there."

After winning his first title medal, Welbeck is keen to impress Moyes when the new manager officially takes up the reins this summer.

"It's something words don't really describe," he said about becoming a title winner. "To finally do it is something I'm really proud of.

"We've got a new manager coming in and I'm sure everyone is looking forward to working with him. It's just exciting times and I can't wait to get started."

Gill Expecting Rooney To Stay

Manchester United chief executive David Gill expects Wayne Rooney to stay at the club in the summer.

Rooney's future at United was left in doubt after departing manager Sir Alex Ferguson revealed the striker had asked for a transfer away from the club.

Reports have suggested that Paris Saint-Germain are keen to secure the England international's services, but Gill believes Rooney will decide to remain at Old Trafford.

"As Sir Alex said at his last press conference, that's an issue for David Moyes. I'm confident he will be there next season," said Gill.

"He's a great, great player and the club doesn't want to lose its star players.

"So I'm sure every bit of work is being taken with Wayne and his advisors and the club to make sure that happens.

"I'm not a betting man but I'm confident when I sit at Old Trafford next season I will see Wayne Rooney running out."

Goalkeeper David De Gea is also hopeful that Rooney will remain at Old Trafford.

He told El Larguero: "He looks fine to me, happy. We do not know if he will go, but we hope he stays. He is a very important player for us."

Meanwhile, Manchester United have confirmed the departures of assistant manager Mike Phelan and goalkeeping coach Eric Steele.

Phelan and Steele leave Old Trafford ahead of an expected shake-up in the United backroom staff, with David Moyes arriving from Everton to take over from long-serving manager Ferguson.

Mike Phelan And Eric Steele Leave Manchester United Coaching Roles

Manchester United have confirmed the departures of assistant manager Mike Phelan and goalkeeping coach Eric Steele.

Phelan and Steele leave Old Trafford ahead of an expected shake-up in the United backroom staff, with David Moyes arriving from Everton to take over from long-serving manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

A former United player, Phelan returned to Old Trafford as a youth team coach in 1999, and was promoted to Ferguson's backroom team two years later, replacing Carlos Queiroz as assistant in 2008.

Steele was installed as goalkeeping coach in 2008 as replacement for Tony Coton, who was forced to retire due to injury.

Moyes, who officially takes over on July 1, said: "I would like to put on record the club's thanks for everything Mike and Eric have done.

"I will be looking to appoint my own members of coaching staff at some point in the future, however, I'd like to take this opportunity to give them both our best wishes for their future careers."

Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward said: "I'd like to thank Eric and Mick for the enormous contributions they have made to the success of Manchester United in their time here.

"Their professionalism, ability and diligence have been a credit to them. They are top class football men and everyone here wishes them well for long and successful careers in the game."

De Gea Insists He Is Very Happy At The Club

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea insists he is not thinking about a move away from Old Trafford.

The Spaniard initially struggled to settle at United following his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2011 but has since established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in England.

De Gea was named in the Premier League team of the season after United's title success but has been linked with a move back to Spain.

With Barcelona set to sell Victor Valdes this summer - possibly to Monaco - De Gea has been mentioned as a possible target.

But he said: "That would be very difficult. I am very happy at United. Things are going really well, better every day. I am very happy."

Meanwhile, De Gea hopes striker Wayne Rooney can sort his future out after telling outgoing United manager Sir Alex Ferguson he wants a move.

De Gea added on El Larguero: "He looks fine to me, happy. We do not know if he will go, but we hope he stays. He is a very important player for us."

Outgoing Manchester United Chief Executive David Gill Elected To UEFA Committee

Manchester United's outgoing chief executive David Gill has been elected to UEFA's executive committee.

There were originally nine candidates for the eight seats at the election at UEFA's Congress in London.

However, Portugal's Fernando Gomes withdrew from the election so Gill and the seven others were elected by acclamation.

Gill will remain a United director but insists his club duties will be comparatively small in his new position.

He said: "I am staying on the football club board but that is more of an ambassadorial role. If you look at it now, any player business that's happening at Manchester United this summer will be done by my successor, Ed [Woodward], and the new manager and that frees up a lot of time.

"I am stepping down from the privilege of being Manchester United CEO for 10 years and the new team's in place and we wish them every success.

"I have thought about it long and hard and I understand coming on to these bodies, the FA and UEFA, you have to put the time and the effort in and I will do so to ensure that I can deliver not only for England but for the 53 countries.

"Let's move forward and I think a positive attitude will pay dividends.

"Hopefully I can bring my experience with Manchester United, the Premier League, the FA, with the national team to bear."

Manchester United Cut Interest Bill To Boost Their Finances

Manchester United have slashed their interest payments with a new refinancing package boosting their finances.

Dealing though Bank Of America, the Premier League champions have cut their interest bill by £10million a year having have refinanced £177.78m of outstanding sterling bonds, on which they are currently paying a rate of 8.75%.

In addition they have refinanced approximately £17m of dollar bonds on

which they are currently paying 8.375%.

United's present debt is £370million, the sum remaining from a highly leveraged takeover by the Glazer family in 2005.

The new loan from June 24 will have an estimated starting interest rate of around 2.78%. Interest payments should come down from around £31m to £21m per year United revealed in a statement.

Despite dire warnings of United's financial position since that time, the Old Trafford outfit have won five Premier League titles and played in three Champions League finals.

Majid Ishaq, managing director of financial advisory group Rothschild, said: "It shows that the infrastructure is in place and the decision they made on the managerial front is viewed as, not negative, but positive.

"They are in a position today where they have gone back to the market to refinance that particular part of the financing on very attractive terms because they have really delivered, and grown the underlying revenue and profitability."

United said earlier this month it is on course to generate more than £350m this season after earning a record £91.7m in the three months to March 31. Net profit more than trebled year-on-year to £3.6m in the third quarter.

"United is unique in that they have a great historic brand, and they have managed to derive value from that history and heritage in a very commercial way," said Ishaq, a football finance expert. "That's a big positive for investors."

With their commercial income rising rapidly, it seems United continue to remain one of the sport's heavyweights, shown last summer when they splashed out £24m on striker Robin van Persie.

It is believed new manager David Moyes will not be short of funds to spend should he wish ahead of the new season.

Ferdinand Agrees New Deal

Rio Ferdinand has signed a new one-year contract, in a deal that will see the defender complete his 12th season as a first team player.

The centre-back has made 432 appearances since his debut in 2002 and won his sixth Barclays Premier League medal with the club this season.

David Moyes said: “It is clear for everyone to see that Rio has had one of his best seasons with the club and I think even from the outside you can see what a big character Rio is around the dressing room, so I am delighted he has signed a new contract. I am looking forward to working with him.”

Rio Ferdinand said: “I am delighted to have signed a new contract. Who wouldn’t want to play in this fantastic team in front of 76,000 fans each week? It has been an incredible journey and I am glad it will continue. I can now fully concentrate on my club career which has worked well for me over the past few years.”

“This is a great team to be part of and we are now moving into a new era with the club which is very exciting. I have met with David I am really looking forward to working with him and winning many more trophies with this great club."

Van Persie Retains Golden Boot

Robin van Persie has won the Barclays Golden Boot for the second season in a row after scoring 26 Premier League goals for Manchester United in 2012/13.

The Dutch striker finished above Liverpool's Luis Suarez (23 goals) and Tottenham's Gareth Bale (21 goals) in his maiden campaign at Old Trafford to help Sir Alex's side win a 20th title.

Van Persie netted with his first shot in the red shirt in August's 3-2 home win over Fulham and his haul included several other memorable goals, including his stunning volley in the title-clinching win over Aston Villa.

The left-foot strike, following a 40-yard pass from Wayne Rooney, completed his hat-trick and was unsurprisingly voted United's Goal of the Season last week.

Robin received the Barclays Golden Boot trophy after the 5-5 draw at West Brom and will be given £30,000 by Barclays to donate to a charity of his choice.

He also won the award last season after bagging 30 goals for Arsenal, three more than Rooney managed for the Reds.

Manchester United Top TV Earners With Record £60.8Million

Champions Manchester United earned a record £60.8million in Premier League TV money after winning the title this season.

The Premier League distributes its TV money in a way that sees half of the total cash from the domestic deals divided equally between the member clubs, and all of the overseas broadcasting income also split equally.

A further 25% of domestic TV income is split as merit money depending where each club finishes in the final league table, and the final 25% paid in 'facility fees' for each time a club's matches are shown on television in the UK.

For that reason, Arsenal and Tottenham both earned more than Chelsea despite finishing below their capital rivals in the table because both the north London sides appeared in more live TV games.

Under the 2010-13 deal, which expired this season, each club received a £13.8million equal share each season plus £18.9million from overseas rights.

Clubs were further guaranteed a minimum of £5.78million for live TV and highlights appearances.

Manchester United earned the most from these facility fees, totalling £12.9million from 25 live appearances.

The three clubs relegated from the top flight earned the least amount, with Wigan Athletic getting £40.8m, Reading £40m and Queens Park Rangers £39.8m.

Some £88million was paid out in parachute payments to clubs relegated over the last three seasons.

Sam Allardyce: Moyes Move A Boost For British Managers

Sam Allardyce says Manchester United's decision to appoint David Moyes as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor is "a huge bonus" for British managers.

"For many years, the top jobs here have all been taken up by foreign coaches," said the West Ham boss.

"It's a huge bonus for David, a huge bonus for British managers."

Moyes, who has been Everton manager for 11 years, will replace fellow Scot Ferguson on 1 July. Ferguson was United boss for 26 years and won 38 trophies.

"For David to get that position is a great achievement for him, a great achievement for British managers to look up to," added Englishman Allardyce.

"They will think: 'If I do my job correctly I may have a chance of getting there at some stage or other in my career.'"

Allardyce also wants club owners to give more job stability to managers, something he thinks would improve the overall standard of British football.

Roberto Mancini's sacking by Manchester City last week took the number of managerial casualties this season to 54 across all four English leagues.

Speaking to BBC Sport at the annual League Managers Association awards dinner in London, the 58-year-old Allardyce said: "Unfortunately, the volatile nature of instant results revolves around every division now and we have to live with that pressure.

"But it would be nice if a little more stability came from the owners and that young managers were given much more of a chance to start learning and improving. The game would evolve a lot, lot better."

England boss Roy Hodgson agreed that the job of being a football manager in Britain was getting tougher.

"You have to be very lucky to survive the ups and downs and that's getting harder and harder," said Hodgson, who has coached in eight different countries.

Allardyce also discussed the imminent return of Jose Mourinho to British football. The Portuguese is tipped to become Chelsea boss for a second time following confirmation that his three-year reign at Real Madrid will finish at the end of the Spanish season.

"He's very entertaining, isn't he?" said Allardyce. "There's not a dull moment with Jose, but he's also a very talented manager."

Asked if Chelsea would be tough to beat next season under Mourinho, Allardyce insisted the Blues are already a "formidable force".

"Carlo Ancelotti won the double, Roberto Di Matteo did what no-one else could do and won the Champions League and Rafa Benitez won the Europa League," said the former Blackpool, Notts County, Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers boss.

"The success of Chelsea has continued since Jose left."

Boss Wins LMA Award

Sir Alex Ferguson has been named football's top boss by his peers in the League Managers Association (LMA) after a triumphant end to his career.

It’s the fourth time the Scot has scooped the LMA award, sponsored by Barclays - the only other man who has won it on at least three occasions is his successor at Old Trafford, David Moyes.

LMA chairman Howard Wilkinson said: “There is no doubt that the LMA Annual Awards are perceived as the most accurate measure of a manager’s ability because there are no better judges of your performance than your peers. Finding words to adequately describe the monumental levels of achievement and the indelible legacy Sir Alex Ferguson leaves in the game, is nigh on impossible. This evening’s award adds yet another record to that list, making him the only person to secure the much coveted LMA Manager of the Year Award for a fourth time. David Moyes, his choice of successor to the Old Trafford throne, has won it three times and I know that Sir Alex will hope and believe that David goes on to equal and surpass the new record.”

LMA chief executive Richard Bevan said: “It is entirely appropriate that Sir Alex should win the LMA Manager of the Year for a record fourth time following his recent retirement announcement. As he retires as the most successful manager in the history of the British game we congratulate him on a magnificent career spanning over 40 years and more than 2,150 matches in football management, with achievements the likes of which we will never see again."

Sir Alex's LMA success follows last week's announcement that he had been named Barclays Premier League Manager of the Season for the tenth time.

Moyes Arrives At Manchester United's Carrington Training Ground

David Moyes has travelled to Manchester United's Carrington training ground on Monday ahead of officially taking over as manager of the club.

The 50-year-old, who took charge of his final game as Everton boss on Sunday, will succeed outgoing Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson on 1 July.

One of the issues at the top of Moyes' initial agenda at United is sure to be the future of striker Wayne Rooney.

The England international, who missed United's incredible final day 5-5 draw at West Brom because his wife had gone into labour, has indicated a desire to leave the champions.

However, reports have suggested that Rooney is willing to discuss his future with the man who gave him his professional debut as a 16-year-old at Everton.

The two fell out following Rooney's departure from Everton when the striker was sued by Moyes for allegations in an autobiography before they reconciled after the player apologised to his former Goodison boss in 2010.

In the near future, Moyes will also want to discuss potential summer transfer targets to strengthen the champions for their title defence and what will be his first Champions League campaign since he led Everton into Europe's premier club competition in 2005/06.

Also high on Moyes' list of duties will be to finalise details of his backroom staff at United.

Moyes has indicated there will be no drastic changes to the existing staff at the club, although Everton assistant manager Steve Round, long-time coach Jimmy Lumsden and former United player Phil Neville, who will leave the Toffees this summer, are all tipped to follow him.

Last week, Moyes said: "I haven't given any undertakings to Bill (Everton chairman Kenwright) about not taking any backroom staff. My position is I am having to weigh up a lot of things right now."

Moyes will be following the most successful manager in English football history when he succeeds Ferguson at Old Trafford.

Ferguson won 38 trophies in 26 years after leaving Aberdeen to take over at United, including 13 Premier League titles - the last of which came this season.

Moyes will discover who will be his first league opponents as United boss on 19 June, when the Premier League fixture lists are released.

Carrick: We Are Ready To Move On

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick says the team are "ready to move on" after Sir Alex Ferguson's 1,500th and final game in charge.

Everton manager David Moyes will succeed Ferguson, who officially retires as United boss on 1 July.

"We have to move forward," said Carrick, who was captain for Ferguson's last match, a 5-5 draw at West Brom.

"We'll have a nice rest in the summer and start again on 3 July when we report back for training."

Ferguson declined to talk to the media after United, who had led 3-0 and 5-2, were forced to settle for a point in a dramatic game at The Hawthorns on Sunday.

With Premier League runners-up Manchester City losing at home to Norwich, the champions still ended the Ferguson era with an 11-point cushion at the top of the table, despite failing to win in their last three away matches.

Ferguson, 71, still managed a smile at the end of the West Brom game despite watching his side concede three late goals.

"It's a bit funny in the dressing room because of the situation," added Carrick.

"We've thanked the manager for everything he's done and he's thanked us.

"The manager wanted to win but the job we've done this season, I'm sure he can retire very satisfied."

Speaking about the future, England international Carrick said: "We're ready to move on and there are new challenges for all of us.

"We're looking forward to it.

"We've had enough time to digest the title celebrations, the news about the manager and [Paul Scholes] retiring. We have to move forward."

West Brom manager Steve Clarke revealed after the match that fellow Scot Ferguson was in "good spirits" after the game as he prepared for retirement.

"I've just had a quick glass of wine with Sir Alex," he said. "He's fine.

"It's a game he'll certainly remember."

Van Persie Hunts More Trophies

Robin van Persie is expecting to win more trophies after landing the Barclays Premier League title and the Golden Boot in his debut season with Manchester United.

The league's top scorer claimed his 26th goal in the competition during the final-day draw at West Brom to hit the 30-mark in all competitions. Although Sir Alex Ferguson is retiring, van Persie is convinced that more glory will follow under new manager David Moyes.

"This is a great bunch of players," explained the Reds' No20 on MUTV. "Everybody wants to work for each other and share the success and I'm 100 per cent sure that we will play for trophies every year and, hopefully, win a few every year. That's our standard for this team.

"The Barclays Premier League means everything and the Golden Boot is like a little bit extra but, as I explained last week, I think they should make 25 of them because we do it together.

"Today again, for example, it was a great cross by Antonio Valencia and an easy goal. We did this together and I'm so happy with how everything went. This is a great team and, hopefully, we can go for even more trophies. I'm sure we can.

"Of course, we get a new manager next year and everybody is looking forward to that. It's a new challenge for everyone. We'll have a nice break now and then we go again."

Van Persie admitted it was a crazy game at The Hawthorns to end the title-winning season but he appreciated the send-off that Sir Alex received from both sets of supporters.

"I was waiting for some Fergie time, you know, at the end," joked the Netherlands international.

"But it didn't happen. It was good fun for everyone, to score 10 goals, so I think the fans are pleased.

"Sir Alex deserved it [the acclaim], to be fair, after 26 and a half years at United and, before that, at Aberdeen. He's unbelievable and I think what the West Brom fans did was a nice touch.

"Of course, when you speak about players like Scholesy [Paul Scholes] and managers like Sir Alex, I think it's right to do that [show respect]. It doesn't always happen in football but, today, it did and I'm glad that it did."

Chicha's Debt To Sir Alex

Javier Hernandez has paid tribute to retiring Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson after netting the final goal of his incredible 26-and-a-half-year reign.

Chicharito admitted he had never been involved in such a "crazy match" after Sir Alex's last game in charge ended in a 5-5 draw with West Brom at The Hawthorns.

The Mexican striker netted United's fifth goal and afterwards spoke of his gratitude for the boss and his respect for Paul Scholes who also retired on Sunday.

"The impact Sir Alex has had on me is massive. He gave me this big chance to play at the biggest club in the world. He has taught me a lot and I only have thankful words for him," he told MUTV.

"It [Sir Alex's retirement] is not only a loss for the British fans but he has changed football across the world. He has been here for 26 years and made the impossible dream come true.

"And what can I say about Paul Scholes? All the players say the same thing about him - he's an incredible player and team-mate, and the class and talent he has is unbelievable."

Chicharito's second half strike was his 50th goal for the Reds. It's a landmark he is proud of but he was keen to reiterate that team achievements come before personal ones.

"I'm very pleased to have 50 goals but the most important thing is I have won two league titles in three years and played in the Champions League final. Like I always say the most important thing is the team and to help the team win trophies," he added.

"It's the first time in my career that I've been involved in a game with 10 goals! It was a crazy match and also a bit frustrating because we wanted to win it. I think we thought we had it won which was a mistake because we relaxed a little bit and West Brom made very good substitutions which helped their team. It's frustrating but the most important thing is we have won the league.

"All the players and fans are expecting things for next season," continued the Mexican, "but we need to take this break, look forward and enjoy the fact we have the trophy back."

Premier League: West Brom 5 Man. United 5

Sir Alex Ferguson requested that his Manchester United players express themselves in his final game in charge at West Brom and they certainly did that in an attacking sense during an unbelievable 5-5 draw.

With the sun shining on the scene of his footballing farewell, the Scot saw his side throw away 3-0 and 5-2 leads as history was made in the Black Country. It was the club's first 5-5 draw since 1895.

Shinji Kagawa, Alex Büttner, Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez all scored, and Jonas Olsson put through his own net, but a hat-trick by substitute Romelu Lukaku helped the Baggies ensure Sir Alex's career ended on a slightly disappointing note.

The champions came out to a guard of honour while both sides applauded the manager onto the pitch amid a tumultuous atmosphere inside the ground as the stage was set for an occasion befitting the great man’s last-ever stint in the dug-out.

With the packed away end roaring the Reds on, some of the football on show was simply sensational. As the ball was worked out of defence superbly in the sixth minute, Büttner's pass into the right-hand channel looked overhit but Hernandez chased it down and supplied a pinpoint cross for Kagawa to head down and past former United keeper Ben Foster.

Three minutes later, Kagawa ignored a stumble from the nearby van Persie to feed Antonio Valencia out wide. The raiding wing-back smashed the ball across goal and Olsson poked it past Foster to double the lead - a similar own goal to the ones netted in two of the past three matches with Albion by Steven Reid and Gareth McAuley.

The Reds were rampant and Olsson was relieved to see another deflection go behind for a corner when getting in the way of a van Persie chip while Phil Jones' shot looped up for Foster to catch. Hernandez's general play was superb but his finishing touch, unusually, was lacking as he got a free header all wrong when captain Michael Carrick swept the ball across.

On the half-hour mark, Carrick's pass was expertly dummied by Hernandez and Tom Cleverley invited Büttner to bury a low drive into the far corner of the net for a well-worked third. There was dissent from the home fans about the manner of their team's collapse and it seemed to spark their players into life with Shane Long heading over from a rare opening.

However, Hernandez really should have got his name on the scoresheet when an expansive pass by Anderson was volleyed first-time into the Mexican's path by Valencia but the shot lacked accuracy and the Baggies escaped. It had a major bearing on the half-time situation as Morrison, a scorer against United in the past, beat Jones to tuck Graham Dorrans' low cross past Anders Lindegaard for 3-1.

Both sides threatened to score again in the five minutes before the break. Valencia and Cleverley set up Hernandez and, although his shot was straight at Foster, the ball cannoned back goalwards off McAuley to force the keeper into making a stunning tip-over. The home side could, somehow, have ended the half only a single goal in arrears as a Jones lapse let in Morrison but Jonny Evans made an excellent saving challenge as Long looked certain to fire home. Steve Clarke pepped up his attack with the introduction of Chelsea loanee Lukaku for the second half and it gave the home fans some hope of a comeback.

Indeed, within five minutes, the Belgium international was allowed to pick the ball up outside the box and roll a softish, but accurate, shot that Lindegaard could only push into the net - much to the Dane's frustration. Yet any thoughts of United ending Sir Alex's reign by relinquishing a three-goal lead looked to initially have been extinguished.

The Reds' response was emphatic with Valencia again to the fore, teeing up Anderson for a shot that Foster saved before leading the charge down the right to flash over another low cross that was placed high into the net by van Persie. It was the Dutchman's 26th league goal for the club and 30th in all competitions from an outstanding debut campaign.

Hernandez saw McAuley snuff out another chance and, after Valencia made an important clearance at the other end, Ryan Giggs came on to join the cavalry. The veteran skipped down the left wing to meet a Kagawa pass as a breathtaking move was capped off by a perfect centre allowing Hernandez to tap in his 50th goal for the club and just reward for his perseverance.

West Brom should have pulled another goal back when Olsson contrived to sky an opportunity from a couple of yards out while Lukaku hammered a free-kick wide and skimmed the side-netting from another promising position. The warning signs were there.

Although a Büttner cross hit the bar and Giggs chipped onto the top of the net, most of the attacking momentum was with the Baggies. However, nobody could have forecast the crazy finale. Dorrans and Billy Jones had efforts before danger-man Lukaku ran onto a Markus Rosenberg through ball to notch his second goal. Within a minute, from the next attack, Youssouf Mulumbu strode through unchallenged to touch in a Jones pass and the comeback was very much on.

Paul Scholes picked up a booking as he made his final appearance as a substitute while Rio Ferdinand was introduced in a bid to stem the tide. However, the veteran centre-back was unable to clear when Lukaku threatened again and the burly striker was able to bundle the ball over line from virtually a horizontal position to sensationally level at 5-5.

It was not the parting result Sir Alex would have wanted, or deserved, but there was entertainment all the way. As he waved farewell to the away end, he may have reflected that any more matches like this would not be good for his blood pressure!

Sir Alex: Reds Will Keep Winning

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced that Manchester United can still continue winning trophies and titles in his absence.

The manager steps down after more than 26 years in charge following Sunday's final Barclays Premier League match of the season at West Brom with David Moyes moving from Everton to take over the reins.

There is every likelihood that many outside of Old Trafford will be hoping the Reds suffer a fall from grace similar to the one that followed Sir Matt Busby's initial retirement in 1969.

However, when asked if cracks will start to appear in the empire, Sir Alex replied: "No. I think if you go back to Busby's day, Sir Matt was probably in the same situation as I find myself today. But he created Manchester United.

"That was the origins of what we are today. He had the vision to take the club into Europe and rebuilt a team in 10 years based mainly around young players to win the European Cup.

"I'm in the same situation as him - the past is the past and will always be there. It’s a good record and the future now lies with a new manager who will get all the support from us and hopefully we’ll continue to be successful. It’s not the end of Manchester United as far as winning titles is concerned. The club will win titles and win trophies."

Sir Alex, of course, is being retained on the board and will also become an ambassador of the club with everybody associated with United hoping he is still a regular visitor to Old Trafford and Carrington.

"The ambassadorial role is 20 days a year so it’s fine," he revealed. "No problem.

"It will be defined by the club. There are a lot of sponsors and a lot of important people in the club. That will be my role.

"Whatever they want me to do in those 20 days will be fine.

"I’ll just do what I’m going to do in the next stage of my life. If I’d waited another year, two years or three years, I’ve still got to deal with what I’m going to do – I’ll remain active. I have to do something and I’ll be doing plenty of things."

Van Persie's Title Craving

Robin van Persie has been “floating on a cloud” since winning his first Barclays Premier League title - and the talismanic Dutchman is determined to retain the crown next season.

The Manchester United striker has been truly exceptional during his first season at Old Trafford, scoring 25 top-flight goals to help the Reds reclaim the championship from rivals Manchester City.

And during Wednesday’s end of season awards, the Dutchman also took home the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year and Goal of the Season gongs. And although clearly delighted, the 29-year-old is more interested in winning another title with his team-mates.

“It is nice but it is not the main thing, which is winning titles with the team and the club,” van Persie explained to MUTV when asked how it feels to claim the prestigious individual prizes.

“This title makes me happy, it did make me happy, but I want more now because we have a great team and the mentality is unbelievable. We can all play football, we work hard for each other and I believe there is more in the locker.

“But it feels unbelievable. It is just a happy feeling in your belly, it’s like you are on a cloud almost every day. There are moments, like when you are in your car driving and listening to music, when the happy feeling comes along and you think, ‘yes we are champions, we did it’.”

Having won his first title, after spending eight years without winning it at Arsenal, van Persie has understandably been among United’s chief celebrators in the last week. However, last summer's marquee signing admits to feeling contrasting emotions following Sir Alex’s decision to retire.

“It is a mixed feeling because he brought me here,” Robin explained. “Although it has only been one year, it has been a year that has made a huge, unbelievable impact on me because of the way he is, the way he works and the person he is.

“We know him better than some other people. He looks after us like his own kids, he always protects us, he is very helpful, he’s positive and his meetings are incredible. It is just a joy to listen to his words and the things he says are always spot on.

“Last week, when he announced his retirement, it was a very sad day but it has been a brilliant year. That is what I like to think about and I like to remember him as a great person and an unbelievable manager.”

When asked what he’d like to win next term, Robin has encouragingly lofty ambitions: “Next year? The Double will do!”

Fellaini Hints At Following David Moyes To Manchester United

Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has hinted that he would like to follow David Moyes to Manchester United.

The Belgian international has long been linked with a move away from Goodison Park, and after a deal in January failed to materialise, he again looks set for a summer of speculation about his future.

Chelsea and Arsenal had been linked, but now he has one eye on Old Trafford due to the fact Moyes is taking charge.

"If I'm leaving Everton, I say if, it will depend on lots of factors," Fellaini told the Sunday Mirror.

"I only want to go to a club where the manager really wants me.

"In 2008, Everton did everything to convince me, especially David Moyes. He made me the player I am now."

Fellaini also revealed that Moyes had told him that he wanted him to become a deep-lying midfielder - rather than the forward he has emerged as in recent years.

"I'm happy with my season, although I didn't play in my best position," said Fellaini.

"I'm not a number 10. David Moyes predicts my future as a defensive midfielder, but due to a lack of offensive power, he plays me up front.

"In the future I want to play as a six or an eight. From there, I can create danger and score goals."

Carrick: Scholes Still Underrated

Michael Carrick has paid tribute to long-term midfield partner Paul Scholes, declaring him to be one of the greatest players to ever grace the game.

Scholes will hang up his boots after this Sunday’s clash with West Brom at The Hawthorns, calling time on an illustrious, trophy-laden career in which the Middleton-born man has become a bona fide Manchester United legend.

A midfield maestro in his own right, Carrick is arguably the perfect candidate to evaluate his team-mate’s immeasurable quality and having thought about it, the 31-year-old is adamant the ‘Class of 1992’ graduate is still criminally underrated within football.

“First and foremost, I’d like to say that Scholesy still doesn’t get enough credit as he should for me,” Michael told MUTV. “He is not regarded as highly in the game as he should be. If you ask anyone who has played against him or played with him, he is right at the top of their tree of players.

“It has been such a privilege to play with him. Even on Sunday (against Swansea), knowing it was his last Old Trafford game, it really meant a lot to me and I really enjoyed it. I made the most of it.

“It is sad to see him go but he has earned his retirement, he has done more than enough in the game and everyone has learned more than enough from him. I’m sure he’ll enjoy himself.”

Of course, Scholes is not the only one retiring this season. His career-long manager Sir Alex Ferguson will also bow out at the top this weekend, paving the way for a new era under David Moyes, who will officially take charge at Old Trafford on 1 July.

And although Carrick admits it will be strange to play under a new boss, who will undoubtedly have his own ways of working, he is enthusiastic to undertake the task after the summer break.

“I think you have to be excited,” Michael explained. “We have to take on the challenge and it is obviously a new challenge. It is going to be a slightly different feeling coming back to pre-season and not really knowing what is going to happen.

“We know we have got the tour and where we are going, but in terms of day to day things, it is going to change. How much change we’ll have to wait and see because there is not too much wrong, but we have a new manager with new opinions. David Moyes is his own man and I am really looking forward to working with him and moving forward both as a team and as individuals.”

Ops For Smalling And Powell

Chris Smalling and Nick Powell have both undergone operations but are expected to return for pre-season training with Manchester United.

Reds defender Smalling was on crutches during the lifting of the Barclays Premier League trophy after the win against Swansea while Powell has been missing from action at both senior and Under-21 level, despite Warren Joyce's side progressing to Monday's league final against Tottenham at Old Trafford.

"They are not long-term injuries," Sir Alex informed MUTV. "They will be ready for pre-season and that's the important thing. It's why we do these things.

"Chris had problems with his foot and had an operation on it. It'll be resolved and he'll be back for pre-season.

"Young Nick had a small operation to relieve a problem he had and he'll also be available for pre-season training. I knew I was not going to use them for the last part of the season, having won the league, so I think it was important to get the operations done."

Ferdinand Close To Agreeing New Contract With Manchester United

Rio Ferdinand is close to agreeing a new contract with Manchester United, according to Sky sources.

The 34-year-old's current contract runs out in the summer, but he is now close to agreeing terms on a new deal.

Ferdinand is believed to paid around £120,000 a week and the new deal - believed to be a one-year extension - would see him earn a similar amount.

Ferdinand, who won his sixth Premier League title this season, announced on Wednesday he was retiring from England duty in order to concentrate on club matters.

On Friday, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: "I think it is something he could have done last year.

"Ending his international career will definitely help him, as it did with Paul Scholes, and hopefully Manchester United will get the benefit of that."

Robin: Collective Effort Key To Manchester United's Title Triumph

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has spoken about the 'unbelievable' team spirit that led them to the Premier League title in Sir Alex Ferguson's final year in charge at Old Trafford.

Van Persie has played a key role in United's success this season following his arrival from Arsenal last summer.

The 29-year-old will be crowned Golden Boot winner for the second season running on Sunday, barring Gareth Bale smashing the Premier League record for most goals in a game on the final day.

But the Dutchman insists United's campaign has been based on a strong team ethic rather than individual excellence.

"This team is unbelievable," Van Persie told MUTV. "Every team of champions starts with a good atmosphere and the idea that every single person wants to share success and everybody wants to play their part in it.

"That is how you achieve big things and win trophies. It is like a puzzle that needs to add up so that in the end, the final puzzle means trophies."

It has not been plain sailing for United, though. Defeat on the opening day to an Everton side inspired by United's next manager David Moyes was not in the script, losing at Norwich was also an unexpected setback and, yet again, United were beaten on home soil by Manchester City in the derby.

The latter loss did not matter though. For United's form was largely superb, with Van Persie scoring a succession of key goals that allowed them to build an advantage over their main rivals that left them so far in front it was impossible to pull back.

"It is a long road," said Van Persie. "You do not win it in one week, it is over a whole year when you have to overcome lots of difficulties in games.

"We work day-in, day-out on stuff you want to achieve in the game. If, in the end, you win the Premier League it is a massive feeling.

"It is not a tournament. You play 38 games, so to win it after 34 says it all. It shows that we were the ones who deserved to win it."

Rooney Not Fergie's Problem

Sir Alex Ferguson is content to leave the problem of what to do about Wayne Rooney to new Manchester United manager David Moyes.

Rooney has asked to leave United this summer even though he still has two years on his contract remaining.

Ferguson revealed last week the request had been turned down, and, along with Gary Neville, advised the England forward to get away during the summer, get his head sorted out and return refreshed.

The matter is not quite so simple, as United will not want to allow the 27-year old to drift beyond the summer without some kind of clear vision of his future. However, as Ferguson acknowledged, it is not his problem any more.

"I have not spoken to David about Wayne," said Ferguson.

"I'm sure he will address it when he gets here. I have no idea why Wayne wants to leave, it is not my department. I am no longer interested in that.

"David is going to deal with that and, quite rightly, he wants to deal with it."

Giggs: The Senior Players Will Help Moyes

Manchester United great Ryan Giggs says incoming boss David Moyes will have the full backing of himself and the other senior players at the club.

However, Giggs agrees that replacing Sir Alex Ferguson, who has decided to retire after a trophy-laden 27-year stint, is a daunting task for Moyes.

Giggs told the Daily Telegraph: "What David Moyes is coming into is a good atmosphere, a really good bunch of lads, very good players and a really strong squad, so it is a strong position to be in.

"But the downside is that you have to follow the most successful manager that has ever lived.

"Managers usually go into clubs when things aren't going great, but this team isn't on a downward spiral, so I don't know if that makes it harder or easier for David.

"But we have a really good bunch of lads in the dressing room and, whenever the manager needs help, the more experienced players will help. That has been the norm, ever since I have been in the club."

Moyes has impressed during his long spell in charge of Everton and Giggs says his work at Goodison Park has earned him the respect of the United stars.

"He has done a brilliant job there and that is evident whenever you play against his teams, because it is never easy against them," said Giggs.

"Some of our former players have gone to Everton and been really successful, like Tim Howard and Phil Neville, and what they have said is that he works you hard and expects you to work hard and perform.

"He sets really high standards, but that is nothing different to what we are used to."

Giggs will play his final game under Ferguson at West Brom on Sunday and says it will be odd to work under a new boss next term.

"I have only ever known one manager at club level and I have been lucky in the respect that it has been probably the best manager ever," said the Welshman.

"I never thought I would outlast him, that's for sure. It is going to be strange and it's going to be weird next year.

"It will be an emotional one on Sunday, knowing that it will be the last time that he will be our manager."

Steve Clarke: United Patience Paid Off

West Brom boss Steve Clarke doesn't think Sir Alex Ferguson would have been given time to prove himself one of the best football managers in history if he was coming into the game right now.

Clarke will be part of Ferguson's last game in charge of Manchester United when the sides meet at The Hawthorns on Sunday, a match that brings an end to a glittering career after more than 26 years at Old Trafford.

But Ferguson's first few years at the club were troubled ones and Clarke doesn't think many clubs would have shown the patience in a manager that United did in the results-driven modern game.

"Would he get three years now like he did at United? No. I don't think so in this day and age. It just shows you, eh? Patience is a virtue," Clarke said.

"Nearly 27 years is a great shift. Listen, he did the hard work in Scotland.

"He started with St Mirren, my club, with a great tradition to build on. So by the time I got there Sir Alex had left but the players he brought into that club carried the club to European competitions for a number of years after that so he gave a good basis there.

"St Mirren did sack him. They were probably forced to sack him - I would imagine Sir Alex in those days was a bit fiery and ready to fight the chairman. I can't remember if the St Mirren chairman said he wasn't manager material, I was a young lad in those days.

"To be a manager or a head coach you have to be resilient; you have to know there will be bad times to go with the good times. The good ones have more good times than bad times.

"He went to Aberdeen and broke the Old Firm monopoly. He came down to England for another challenge and struggled for three years, but he got the time to build because in those days you got the time to build.

"Over the years he's built a dynasty, one of the biggest clubs in the world and they just went from strength to strength, every year they were always challenging for honours so he did a fantastic job.

"Our players will form a guard of honour for the champions. I think our club and Man United can discover if there's anything extra (to mark Ferguson's retirement).

"I would imagine our club would have a presentation, but it would be in the boardroom I would think, to Sir Alex. But I don't know. I am only guessing.

"We will give a guard of honour for the champions that's the tradition in English football, it's a tradition I like. It's good."

Sir Alex: Football Will Continue To Be Manchester United's Priority

Sir Alex Ferguson insists football will remain the priority at Manchester United when David Moyes takes over at Old Trafford.

Ferguson's exit as United boss has sparked concerns that United's ever-growing commercial arm will become even more powerful.

With suggestions that Moyes will not have the power to resist their demands as Ferguson has been able to.

And with the Scot remaining on the club's board, he is certain his successor will have no such problems.

"The priority is the football team," Ferguson said.

"Without the football team they wouldn't have all the sponsorships.

"Everyone knows that here.

"David will soon realise the enormity of this club," Ferguson added.

"Although I think he does already, he has to fit into the global brand and number of sponsors we've got.

"I don't think that is an issue. He's got a good squad of players and he'll want to add to that himself.

"I've spoken to David a few times. He will have his own ideas and I would imagine he will want to come in quite soon and speak to staff."

And, speaking ahead of his final game in charge of Manchester United on Sunday, Ferguson added: "People used to say to me 'do you think this one will be a manager or manage United' about players who are not even in the job now.

"Football is that kind of industry..

"When you're assessing the job here you have to get somebody who has the longevity and the experience over a long time to manage this club.

"That is why David was above everyone else.

"I hope (he can be there for a long time).

"It's the one club he could do that at. We've shown great loyalty to our managers."

Sir Alex On 'Incredible' 1500 Games

Sir Alex Ferguson says it is "quite incredible" he will be managing Manchester United for the 1,500th time in his final game in charge, against West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

The retiring Old Trafford boss, who won 38 trophies during his 26-year reign, will be succeeded by Everton manager David Moyes.

"So my last game, 1,500 matches - quite incredible," said Ferguson

"I want to win this one more than last week's even."

Ferguson, 71, received a huge ovation in his final home game in charge against Swansea on Sunday, before thousands lined the streets for Monday's Premier League champions parade.

"Sunday was amazing and the parade on Monday, it was incredible, even better than 1999." he said.

"I thought the scenes after the treble in 1999 couldn't be beaten but I think Monday probably did."

"I went home that night and got 10 hours sleep, the first time in my life. It was marvellous, really good."

Ferguson, who will stay on at Old Trafford as a director and ambassador, has asked United's fans to support Moyes when he takes over as manager this summer.

He said: "I'm driven to take on some challenges and some other things right away.

"I've got the league managers' meeting on Monday, Newmarket Tuesday and Wednesday. I'm going on holiday, it's the [Epsom] Derby on 1 June, then the operation, then the recuperation, then the season starts.

"It can't be a substitution, it's a different life. Thirty nine years as a manager and from that day staring at East Stirling with eight players and no goalkeeper to today six 'keepers and about 100 players."

Ferguson was presented with a cake by the media prior to Friday's news conference in honour of the 26 years he has spent at Old Trafford.

He said: "There have been some times when I have not agreed with what people have written and when you write positive things I tend to dismiss them.

"But I have never held a grudge. It is not my style."

Van Persie: De Jong Was Wrong

Having seen more than 100,000 United fans enjoying Monday’s trophy parade, Robin van Persie knows that Manchester is Red – disproving claims made to him by former City midfielder Nigel de Jong.

In an exclusive interview with MUTV, the Reds striker revealed his Dutch compatriot once told him the city is predominantly Blue - a statement which Robin now feels is wide of the mark.

“I have to say, I spoke to Nigel De Jong a couple of years ago when he was playing for City and he said ‘in Manchester, you only have City fans’,” Robin explained. “I said ‘Okay that sounds a bit weird but whatever’ and he claimed United fans are from all over the world, and from different cities.

“But I have to adjust him on that and say it is definitely not true. It is at least 50/50 in Manchester or it might be even more after what I saw last Monday, maybe it is 80/20 United.”

Van Persie continued: “I saw so many people looking so happy. There were so many fans - it just came out of nowhere. There were more and more as the tour went on and it put a big smile on my face. It was a day that nobody will ever forget.

“The guys said (the parade) two years ago was amazing but they were a bit unlucky about the weather, but this was just incredible. There were so many people, so many people who were so happy and so passionate about this championship.”

Sir Alex Nets Barclays Awards

Sir Alex Ferguson has been named Barclays Manager of the Season, as well as picking up a Barclays Merit award for his outstanding contribution to the Premier League.

It’s the 11th time the retiring Manchester United boss has won the Manager of the Season accolade and he'll receive it on Sunday at West Brom, his final game in charge.

He won the inaugural award in 1994 and also claimed it in 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011.

The Merit award, which was presented to Sir Alex at Carrington on Friday, recognises his remarkable achievements in the competition over the last two decades, in which he has guided the Reds to 13 titles.

Sir Alex’s final league triumph will be among the most satisfying of the lot as his side emphatically bounced back from last season’s final-day heartache, winning the title with four games to spare.

Kagawa: So Long, Sir Alex

Shinji Kagawa has paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson as the boss prepares for his 1,500th and final game in charge of Manchester United at West Brom on Sunday.

Kagawa moved to Old Trafford last summer and, though he spoke no English at first, it wasn’t hard for him to appreciate just why the Reds manager is so revered in the game.

The Japanese midfielder has huge respect for the retiring Scot and his sole regret is that he was only able to play under him for one season.

"He has a magnetic power," Kagawa told ManUtd.jp. "I felt it the first time I met him, from the way he conducts himself and also from working with him on the pitch.

"He communicates well with his players and respects them. As the season went on, I got to communicate with him more, both on football and other subjects. That was important.

"He is a friendly person and his spirit is much younger than his age. I think that’s because of his achievements over the years, and also his personality.

"I wish I could have played much longer under him. What he has achieved for the club is tremendous – he is in a class of his own."

Rio Thanks Sir Alex

Rio Ferdinand has recalled the moment Sir Alex Ferguson informed the players of his impending retirement and thanked the boss for allowing him to manage his own fitness routine.

Sir Alex's man-management is legendary and the experienced defender believes the Scot's approach has enabled him to remain at the top of his game, even earning a place in the PFA Team of the Season.

The centre-back realises he will have to start afresh with new man David Moyes in 2013/2014 but believes he has plenty still to offer at Old Trafford after announcing his international retirement. As everybody still comes to terms with Sir Alex's exit, MUTV spoke exclusively to Ferdinand about the hectic spell.

"We came in and there was a notice on the board to say there was a meeting," Ferdinand revealed. "Everyone was thinking there were rumours in the paper that the manager is going to leave but we're a bit like: 'There's no chance he'll be leaving. There are too many good things going on at the club and what's going to happen in the next couple of years because of the squad he's building'.

"Then he broke the news and the most I remember from it was that it was dead quiet in the room. Even when he left, there was real mad silence and I think that's just a combination of disappointment and respect as well for the manager's decision.

"For what he's done for the club, for us as individuals and as a team, you've got to respect his decision. He's been in the game for a long time, he knows what he's doing and I think he deserves a rest."

Sir Alex has put his trust in Ferdinand to manage his fitness after having to shrug off a niggling back problem that had threatened to limit his involvement.

"I think he puts it on you and other members of staff, the sports science department and physios, to try and work out the way to manage yourself," said the 34-year-old. "Giving you that responsibility.

"I think that's part of his great management. Some people try and dictate and say do it this way: 'I know better than anyone else'. He gives you that responsibility to say: 'Work it out for yourself and get to the point where you know what you are doing and can manage it yourself. So, come Saturday or Sunday, you're available for me to pick you'.

"He let me do that and it released any kind of pressure. Some managers do put [pressure] on players to be fit all the time. I've been in that situation where I think I need to be fit, I really need to be fit and you almost become a hindrance to the team. It's great for me to get that comfort from the manager. I think, as an older player, you need that towards the end of your career."

With Everton boss Moyes coming in to take charge, Ferdinand admits he will need to impress all over again and starts from scratch along with all his team-mates.

"You've got to prove yourself under the new manager," he said. "He's going to come in with new ideas, new rules and a new regime. No matter how long we've been here, the likes of Giggsy and myself have been here for many years, we'll be in the same boat instead as people like Danny Welbeck, Phil Jones and Tom Cleverley. So we've all got to be wanting to prove ourselves to make sure he thinks we're the right people to start each game.

"I think this is the way the manager, in his dreams, would've liked to leave the club - in a fit state for someone else to come in and take the reins. We're not going to be looking up to other teams, we're looking down and saying: 'Come and catch us'.

"We're in a fantastic position. Obviously, they are massive shoes to fill but he couldn't be walking into a healthier situation. The young players here are hungry and want to win stuff. The senior players have won a lot of things but have still got the desire and the work ethic that the manager has instilled into us. I think that's vital for the future of the football club."

Ferdinand has certainly celebrated the title victory in style, leading the chants and singing on the bus during the parade and savouring every moment of the latest league triumph.

"I think the fans see us after the games and before the games doing interviews around the training ground and Old Trafford and we're quite serious and straight," he stated. "It's because we're all professional and all directed towards winning and don't want to get out of our comfort zone really. We just get the interviews done and carry on.

"But it's the end of the season, we've won the league so we can let our hair down, get the party started and we've had a good two weeks. We've had a good few nights out, that are well deserved, and the manager has been great in that sense because he's let us enjoy it.

"I think the first title I enjoyed unbelievably. When I see now the pictures from that night that we won it, I was going bananas on the pitch! When I think about in between, I don't know if I went as crazy as you take it for granted almost. I'm towards the end of my career, I've maybe got a couple of years left and you start really thinking I've got to take it in. I think I took it in this time."