Manchester United: 5 Young Guns to Watch

Every once in a while we are treated to some of Sir Alex Ferguson's products that dazzle us with their skill and ability.

This season is one of those special moments, seeing as he has a cast of young, enthusiastic players with great hunger and desire to win.

Five games into the season, we have already seen a number of young players; and with a long season ahead, we could very well see even more passionate young Reds.

Sir Alex has been able to work closely with his coaching staff and management to prepare these kids for the big world—a world full of pressure and tidal waves.

Can this new crop of players manage the test and be successful in the toughest league in the world?

5. Tom Cleverly

Having already made a few appearances, the young Englishman has made an immediate impression and has been rewarded with a call-up to the national team (though he didn't get on field).

Cleverly was sent out on loan to Leicester City, Watford and Wigan before breaking into the first team at Old Trafford.

With decent Premier League experience now, Sir Alex feels the young central midfielder has enough to control the game alongside some of the most talented attacking players in the League.

Cleverly, now 22 years old, could become one of the stalwarts of the United midfield if he can find consistency at the highest level—something many young players lack.

He reminds me of a Andres Iniesta or a Xavi type of player, with awareness of the opposition, quick passing and ability to cut defensive lines with precision passing. Whether he will ever reach the heights of Iniesta or Xavi, only time can tell.

The big topic during the summer was who will take the baton from the retiring Paul Scholes, and a flurry of big names were mentioned. Sir Alex started preseason with his brightest star and was rewarded every game until Cleverly was injured against Bolton.

His return will be crucial, as many will have their eyes peeled to see if he can reach top level with a quick turnaround, and maintain it over a long stretch.

Nevertheless, Cleverly is one to watch this season.

4. Phil Jones

Here is another light shinning brightly, not just for Manchester United, but for the English national team as well.

Making the move from Blackburn Rovers to United was an easy decision for Jones, while breaking into the first team was a tough one. But with injuries to three key defenders, Jones has made a huge impact on the future of United's central pairing.

With the return of captain Nemanja Vidic eagerly anticipated, it could very well be a master partnership and the toughest to break through.

In recent games, Jones has shown his attacking attributes with dazzling forward runs which, though not all officially attributed to Jones, have resulted in two goals and an assist coming from a cross.

Having played for Blackburn in the Premiership, he has already gained loads of experience and is bursting with potential.

Only 19 years old, Sir Alex seems to have found one of the best buys of the summer.

3. Paul Pogba

Referred to at times as the next Patrick Vieira, Pogba seems to have risen to the skies with so many holding him in high regard for a bright future.

Still only 18 years old, and born in Lagny Sur Marne, France, he seems to be the full package with a range of options and sense of class—especially when he find the back of the net.

He is creative, quick, strong and has the right personality to go with it.

Pogba has been included into the 25-man squad for the season, though speculation is that he could be sent on loan. Still, many feel and hope he will be given a chance against Leeds in the Carling Cup.

With so much talent and experience already in the first team, it could be a tough ride for a young player breaking his way into contention. With the abilities this young player however, it would be disappointing if Sir Alex fails to give him a chance.

In my opinion, the future of United's midfield lies with Pogba, Cleverly and Anderson. It might be a bold prediction, but with the nurturing and management at Old Trafford, they could be the best in their trade.

2. Danny Welbeck

With 20-year-old Danny Welbeck already blossoming into one of the top young strikers, it surely appears United's academy is oozing with talent.

After spending some time with Preston North End and Sunderland, Danny has matured into a tough and bold striker with the right attitude and confidence to take on any defense.

And so he showed against Arsenal in the recent 8-2 drubbing.

Once he recovers from his hamstring injury, Welbeck could find himself ahead of Dimitar Berbatov as the third striker.

He has the speed, creativity and, most importantly, hunger and desire to separate himself from other young strikers in the league.

1. Anderson

Having joined Manchester United in 2007, Anderson seems to have been part of the first team for some time now, though he just turned 23 in April this year.

Anderson came to Old Trafford with a huge name and expectations, and for many, he has failed to live up to the bells that he could be the next "Ronaldinho."

Well, this season, the young Brazilian midfielder has come out of his shell and emerged as the best in-house replacement for Paul Scholes.

He is tough on the ball, makes incisive passes, and is always working hard to close down on the opposition; this could well be the season that brings the most out him.

Playing amongst players much younger than him, Anderson has also experienced the leadership role, and, of course, playing on such a winning and highly-prolific scoring team has elevated his confidence.

This list gives you a clear indication of the path Sir Alex is taking, as he prepares a team to last the next five years, or more.

• Follow Up Article:

• Manchester United: 5 Players with Experience to Shine

• http://z.zaakirh.com/oyN1Tv