Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand insists their preparations are on course, despite losing in the Audi Cup final.

Ferdinand insists the result will not knock United off course as they aim to hit their peak for August 16 when they host Birmingham at Old Trafford.

"I think we showed glimpses of improvement," he said.

"I think the Asia tour has been a very good workout for us physically and today and yesterday were a step up in class in opposition.

"Physically, we are on the road to getting where we want to be for the beginning of the season."

While United looked tired during the second half of their 2-1 win over Boca Juniors, they seemed to discover some extra reserves of energy as the match progressed.

However, Ferdinand is still looking forward to a break before work begins in earnest ahead of the Community Shield against Chelsea on August 9.

"I think Asia was a long tour for us physically," he said. "We were very tired after that.

"We now get a couple of days off and then we get back to training and working hard, but we are on the right road."