Benni McCarthy has warned Manchester United fans to expect a fairly defensive strategy for new manager Jose Mourinho.

The South African teamed up with Mourinho to win the Champions League with Portuguese giants Porto back in 2004 so is well-versed to pass judgment on the Red Devils boss.

McCarthy feels Mourinho's famed discipline will come to the fore at Old Trafford as he strives to make the now beatable United hard to break down.

"Defence is the priority for Jose," former Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United forward McCarthy told FourFourTwo.

"Teams haven't been afraid to play against Manchester United like they used to be.

"Even though their defence didn't concede so many goals [last season], it still looked leaky and teams knew they'd get chances against them.

"He wants his teams to be very disciplined.

"It's not all attack, attack, attack. He's cautious, but makes sure opponents can't break you down easily. He'll be very well prepared on opponents, better than anyone."