Fergie sets Tosic timescale

Manchester United new-boy Zoran Tosic could be ready to make his first-team debut by the end of February.

Alex Ferguson has put a six-week timescale on Tosic’s ability to gain match fitness and the strength required to cope with the rigours of life in the Premier League following his estimated £10m move from Partizan Belgrade.

Then the United boss feels the 21-year-old will be able to play some part in the Red Devils annual trophy quest.

“It is possible he could play in around six weeks,” said Ferguson.

“The physical part is pertinent because the Premier League is competitive and tough. There is no getting round that fact. But given normal progress, he could be involved. It is a great option for us to have someone with a natural left foot in our team.”

Tosic’s directness means, rather than newly-crowned FIFA world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo, of his current squad, Ferguson likens his new addition to Nani, with set-piece delivery akin to David Beckham, which could make him a very useful asset.

“There are similarities with Beckham in terms of going box-to-box and his good delivery,” said Ferguson. "He is naturally left-footed, although he has played on the right-hand side for Serbia.”

Ferguson has already challenged Tosic to hit the same dizzy heights as Ronaldo, who was only 17 when he came to England from Sporting Lisbon.

Ferguson’s commitment to the excellence of youth ensures the Serbian winger will be given every opportunity to fulfil his enormous potential.