Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says the emergence of Federico Macheda is one of the reasons why the Old Trafford outfit have not spent big this summer. The 17-year-old Italian was on target as United beat a Malaysia XI 2-0 in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, netting the opener before Michael Owen added a second.

Ferguson told MUTV: "I am pleased that Macheda and Owen have struck up a good partnership.

"We have big hopes for Macheda. He is one of the reasons we didn't go into the market. He is strong, athletic and a good finisher.

"He played his part last season but he is just a young lad learning his game."

Ferguson was also pleased with Owen, who grabbed his second goal in two pre-season games.

"It was a typical Michael Owen goal. He reacted first as he did the other night, his whole contribution was very good," he said.