Ferguson tips Macheda to shine

Sir Alex Ferguson is certain Federico Macheda has a big future at Manchester United. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez enjoying pastures new, United supporters are looking for more heroes to celebrate. Michael Owen is not doing a bad job for starters, adding to his debut-day goal against a Malaysian XI last Saturday with another in a 2-0 win over the same opposition in Kuala Lumpur, but Ferguson was also delighted that Macheda got his first pre-season goal. The United manager has taken a leap of faith with the 17-year-old Italian by handing him the coveted fourth striking berth this term - and Ferguson is confident his trust will not be misplaced. "Macheda is top drawer, a hero in the making, just as Cristiano was," said Ferguson. "It is hard to believe he is just 17. We probably need to check his birth certificate because I reckon he is at least 28."