Manchester United Football Club News

• Nickname:Red Devils
• Founded:1878
• Manager:Sir Alex Ferguson

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Dong pens United deal

17 Jan 2007 - 13:37:49

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Dong Fangzhou has signed a new contract with Manchester United and is finally eligible to play for the current Premiership leaders after being granted a work permit last month.

The China international has penned a deal that will keep him at Old Trafford until the end of the 2009-10 campaign.

The 21-year-old striker initially moved to United from Dalian Shide three years ago, but has spent the last two seasons on loan with Royal Antwerp.

He has scored 35 goals in 61 games for the Belgian side, but United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted the player is now eligible to star in competitive matches in England.

"We're all excited he's eventually arrived and can start playing," he told the club's official website. "He sacrificed two-and-a-half years at Royal Antwerp, which showed great patience and determination.

"He's quick and athletic and he can only improve by training with the first-team squad here."

Dong has played for United in several pre-season friendlies and scored in last summer's clash with South African side Kaizer Chiefs.