Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has backed the USA to do well at next month's World Cup finals in South Africa - once they have played England. "In the group they're in with England and Algeria, it's not beyond them to qualify," Ferguson said during a press conference in New York to publicise Manchester United's summer tour to North America.

"England will be very, very motivated under Capello. Capello is a really outstanding coach.

"Of course, he has some issues what his team is going to be to start with, but they will be difficult to beat.

"If (USA) can survive after that in terms of the next two matches, they have a very good chance at qualifying. In fact, I think they will qualify."

Ferguson pointed to Fulham's Clint Dempsey and MLS 2009 player of the year Landon Donovan as the players to watch in Bob Bradley's squad.

"You know, they've proved themselves in previous World Cups. Donovan, Dempsey, have some experience of being there before," he said.

"I don't think they're going to be overwhelmed with the atmosphere of the World Cup, the importance of the World Cup, the intensity.

"I think that will be easy for them. I think they'll be used to that. Those players have that, Donovan, Dempsey. Dempsey has had a great season in England this year.

"They are very athletic, they apply themselves very well, and are difficult to play against."