Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed how they've spread their scouting network across the world.

Even though the Scot is 68, he continues to plan for the long term at United.

"In England, football is very physical and this factor always has to be kept in mind," he told La Tercera. "For this reason, we look for a technical mix of speed, imagination, balance, determination, self-confidence.

"This often narrows down the selection of players.

"Of course, there are always smaller footballers, such as Lionel Messi, who have an impressive speed on the pitch - both in terms of movement and thinking.

"It's a constant and intense job [scouting for new recruits]. We have scouts in Brazil and Argentina, who also pay attention to the rest of South America.

"Also in Mexico and Germany, where we have three coaches who are in charge of the countries close by, such as Austria, Slovakia and Czech Republic, and one in South Africa.

"Furthermore, there are other contacts which are more informal."