Fergie: Harry left in dark over Modric

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Alex Ferguson can appreciate the dilemma close friend Harry Redknapp has had to contend with over the summer regarding Luka Modric.

For Redknapp, it has been a case of wondering whether the Croatian playmaker will leave White Hart Lane as Chelsea have sternly tested the resolve of chairman Daniel Levy.

Levy has repeatedly stated Modric is not for sale at any price, and has so far been true to his word in rejecting bids from the Blues of £22 million and £27m.

However, the fact Modric did not play in Thursday night’s Europa League play-off demolition of Hearts, amidst claims of a thigh injury, has fuelled talk he could leave before the transfer window closes as he is not cup-tied for European competition.

With Spurs due at Old Trafford on Monday, and with rumours Modric could play, Ferguson said: “Tottenham have said they’re never going to sell him. That’s what Daniel Levy has said.

“But then you’ve a feeling if someone comes in with the right offer he will be sold, and that’s difficult for Harry, to work out Daniel Levy’s thinking.

“I know Harry wants to bring in a couple of players, no doubt about that, because what he has achieved the last couple of seasons has been brilliant.

“So it has been difficult for Harry getting through the summer not quite sure what’s going to happen.

“It could yet happen before the window closes he gets two or three players in, and I think he’s hoping for that.’’

For Ferguson, his options are very much youth-oriented these days, with one of the youngest teams he has selected for many seasons set to take to the Old Trafford pitch on Monday.

With defenders Rio Ferdinand and captain Nemanja Vidic sidelined — the Serbian for five weeks with a calf injury, Jonny Evans and new acquisition Phil Jones, 23 and 19 respectively, form the centre-back pairing, with 21-year-old Chris Smalling at right-back.

Add in new goalkeeper David de Gea and Danny Welbeck (both 20), Tom Cleverley (22), Anderson (23), Nani (24) and Ashley Young and Wayne Rooney at 25, there is a fountain of youth at Old Trafford these days which excites Ferguson.

“We’ve replaced the players who have left us, and we’ve still players at the club in their 30s, which is a lot of experience.

“At some point when the young players may hit a pocket there will be enough experience to augment the challenge we’re after this year.

“It is a very young team at the moment, but it’s one full of energy and of great ability, and I’m enjoying watching them.”