Having snapped up several top youngsters from watching them in the famed U15 Nike Cup, Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he finds the global tournament more exciting than the local academy league.

He said: "I watch academy games and it is the same humdrum stuff all the time to be honest. I don't see anything exceptional or surprising. I don't want to criticise our academy system, but I see a different football in this tournament.

"The technique and comfort on the ball and the way of playing is more pleasing on the eye - to me anyway. That's to do with a different football culture and upbringing."