UNITED TOUR

A United press release reads

The host venues/cities, sponsor and opponents will be named in late April by the South African promoters SAIL Group. Commenting on the decision to tour South Africa so close to the end of the World Cup Sir Alex Ferguson said,

"This tour gives us a great chance to prepare those in our first team squad who aren't involved in the World Cup quarter finals for the new season. It also gives us an ideal platform to do what Manchester United has always done best.....give our talented younger players the opportunity to display their skills and make a claim for regular first team football. We have to give players who play in the World Cup quarter finals and beyond sufficient rest and recovery time before they report for pre-season training."

Managing Director of SAIL, Brand de Villiers, adding his comments about the visit of Manchester United, said;

"Manchester United is the world's best known and supported football team and we're delighted to be hosting them. Ryan Giggs will lead the team if England progress to the latter stages of the World Cup and he, Paul Scholes and other talented players will, I'm sure, delight South African football fans with their collective skills and fierce combative attitude. We can't wait!"

While it is relatively unusual for the team to travel long distances for preseason games after a major international championship Sir Alex believes this tour is a worthwhile departure from the norm

"The time difference of just two hours between the UK and South Africa is the key. We anticipate arriving fresh, training well, playing good, competitive matches and returning home ready for the challenge of the new season. It's essential we get a good start to the season so our preparation has to be right. The facilities for training are excellent and the level of competition should leave everyone sharp," he said.

In addition to playing the three matches it is anticipated that the Club will also engage in activities that support their long running "United for Unicef " campaign, local charities, and also in supporting local coaching initiatives for young people.

As one RI contributor pointed though with United returning home 22nd July and the start of the season around 20th august just how long before Fergoz complains of how they're tired due to the long pre-season?