Park set for United deal

MIDFIELDER Park Ji–sung is confident his Manchester United performances will improve after quit ting international football.

Sir Alex Ferguson revealed last night Park is likely to sign a two–year contract extension, having emerged as a central component in the Red Devils' plans.

Ferguson has never doubted Park's ability but the energetic midfielder's United career is littered with injuries.

The Red Devils chief always felt Park's frequent journeys back to South Korea were a factor and now he is no longer compelled to make them, the 30–year–old is hoping for a positive spin–off.

Ferguson will hope so too, especially if he fails to get a replacement for Paul Scholes.

Park has overcome early cynicism over the reasons behind United's decision to sign him and proved his worth on countless occasions, especially in big games.

Ferguson also expects Darren Fletcher to be part of his squad again by the time United return to England on July 31. The Scotland skipper managed just two appearances in the final two months of the season after being struck down by a virus that caused dramatic weight loss.

New goalkeeper David de Gea (20) will start tomorrow's friendly with Chicago Fire at Soldier Field.

De Gea was a late arrival on tour after his European Under–21 Championship campaign in Spain.