Ferguson pleased with new recruits

Alex Ferguson has expressed his pleasure at the ease with which his new recruits have settled in at Manchester United and claims his squad is stronger than last season despite the departures of David Beckham and Juan Sebastian Veron.

The Manchester United manager, who would not respond to claims made about him in serialisations of Beckham’s autobiography last week, believes the balance of the squad is better.

Speaking after a UEFA elite coaches forum in Nyon, Switzerland, Ferguson told the Press Association: “We are stronger than last year simply because we have brought in some young players who will develop well.

“Kleberson will take time, he’s learning the language, and we will give (Cristiano) Ronaldo time simply because he’s so young.

“But Eric Djemba-Djemba has settled in very well – he speaks English very fluently now, he has worked very hard on it and that’s not a problem for him.

“As for the goalkeeper Tim Howard, he has been outstanding, an absolute revelation.

“I am happy with the balance and though we may have a weakness in the defence, we have players who can adapt and apply themselves in defensive roles.”

Meanwhile, Ferguson says Manchester United are reaping the dividends this season from Roy Keane’s retirement from international football.

The former Republic of Ireland skipper has begun the new campaign in sparkling form – in contrast to some tired-looking performances last season which had some observers questioning whether he was past his best.

Ferguson said: “Taking away his international duties has given Roy Keane an opportunity when he can get a break. We have sent him away this week, given him four or five days off, so he can rest and get ready for our next game against Charlton.

“He has already shown the benefits of rest. He had a good summer, prepared himself really well, kept his training regime going and kept himself fresh. We have seen the results of that and hopefully he’s back to being Roy Keane.

“Last year Alan Shearer had what was perhaps one of his best seasons and it’s no coincidence that he doesn’t have the strain and pressure of international football any more, does not have to spend all that time away from home and looks far more relaxed.”