End nears for United stars

MANCHESTER United go into Sunday’s Premier League match at Swansea with a six-point lead over neighbours City.

But manager Sir Alex Ferguson is already planning for next season - one that will probably see the Reds lose three of their ageing stars.

Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Rio Ferdinand have each given an indication they will hang up the Red shirt at the end of this season.

Scholes is likely to stay at Old Trafford as a coach — pouring cold water on suggestions he might become Athletic manager at some stage - while Giggs is said to want to compete in triathlons.

Ferdinand has indicated his future, but his contract expires this season and he is reported to be considering other options.

United, who have been drawn to play Real Madrid in the Champions League’s last 16 aim to turn the screw on their Premier League rivals over Christmas.

Defender Phil Jones said: "The manager talks a lot about the Christmas period being one of the toughest spells of the Premier League season and that to be in a strong position at the turn of the year is vital,

"We've put ourselves in a good position but we want to make the most of it."



SIR Alex Ferguson is already looking forward to his Manchester United side taking on Real Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The draw means a return to Old Trafford for ex-United star Cristiano Ronaldo and another battle of wits between rival bosses Ferguson and Jose Mourinho.

Said Ferguson: “It's a great opportunity for our fans to see Cristiano again and also for me to meet up with Jose again – I'll need to order some good wine!"

Arsenal, the only other English side left in the tournament, will face last season's beaten finalists Bayern Munich, while Celtic will take on Italian champions Juventus.