Fergie says United can be a force again

ALEX FERGUSON is convinced the potent combination of youth and the predatory powers of Ruud van Nistelrooy can turn Manchester United into a European force once more.

With the spectre of Diego Forlan hanging over the Red Devils boss on the eve of his 12th Champions League campaign, Ferguson believes his team are better equipped for success now than they were 12 months ago.

Given they tumbled out of the competition at the first knockout stage for the second year in succession, the statement is not particularly brave.