VIEW FROM THE CLASSROOM

In a top team, the drive and leadership needs to come from further back in the team. For me, Steve Bruce was always the driver from the back for Manchester United. And this is where Rio Ferdinand comes in.

Sir Alex Ferguson simply saw that he had a gap and went out and bought the best available. Though I believe Sol Campbell to be a better defender, especially away from home, Rio has a talent for passing the ball and will enjoy the freedom of being allowed to distribute it at Old Trafford. He also has a determined streak and takes responsibility for a defence, which will sit well with his team mates.

Between them, Sir Alex and Roy Keane, who I expect to be a big player this season after his unhappy summer, will ensure also that Rio knows what is expected from a United player, though I do not anticipate the extra scrutiny bothering him. He will, for sure, be fired up.

Last season United ultimately felt the effects of a poor start. It is unlikely to be allowed to happen again. And they have the depth of squad to enable them to rest key players in midwinter. Above all, after winning nothing last term, Sir Alex will have instilled in them a new fear and determination. I know that to be a powerful cocktail from my own experiences of fruitless seasons. It is one I expect to be too powerful for their rivals.