Fergie impressed by Smith's determination

Alex Ferguson has said Alan Smith's blind vision was a major selling point in his move to Manchester United.

The Manchester United boss said: “I have never been more impressed with a young player, his desire to play for Manchester United is fantastic.

“Certain young people come along with a special determination, and after speaking to him I expect that from Alan Smith. That desire will take him a long way.”

Smith will return to United for pre-season training in July but knows he faces stiff competition from Ruud van Nistelrooy and Louis Saha for his first-team place.

Smith said: "I have grown up at Leeds and spent some wonderful years there and would like to thank everyone associated with the club.

“Now I feel it’s the right time to move on and there could be no better club than Manchester United.

“To be joining one of the best clubs in the world is fantastic and I’m looking forward to the new challenges that face me.”