Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is ready to test Newcastle United's resolve for Cheik Tiote.

The Red Devils sent trusted chief scout Martin Ferguson to Tyneside for the 0-0 draw with Swansea City to run the rule over Tiote.

The brother of Man U boss Sir Alex was in the stands at St James' Park on Saturday and witnessed the return from injury of the African, who played his first game since October 22.

An Old Trafford source told the Evening Chronicle: "There's definitely a shake-up going on at Man United.

"Sir Alex is furious at the way his team limped out of the Champions League and the Carling Cup in the last few weeks and he wants to add some bite to his team during the forthcoming transfer window."