United way is best way – Butt

NICKY Butt insists Manchester United’s academy is still the most attractive option for young players despite the emergence of their big–spending rivals.

Butt has been appointed head of the club’s fabled academy, replacing Brian McClair, who left to join the Scottish Football Association last year.

Butt was part of the most famous group to have graduated from the club’s youth set–up in recent times – the famous Class of 92, which included stars like Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, David Beckham and Ryan Giggs.

He has now been charged with restoring the reputation of an academy whose prominence has come under threat, following the multi–million-pound expansion of Manchester City’s academy, where many ex–United players have sent their children in the last few years.

Butt is adamant United remains the best option: “No–one else can touch our club, with our path for players to come through,” the former United midfielder said.

“We speak to the parents passionately about it and the evidence is there for all to see. We’ve done that very well for many years, but we must move forward with the Academy - and it starts with me taking over.”

Meanwhile, Midtjylland has been accused of “exploiting” United fans by charging them £71 each for a ticket to tomorrow’s Europa League match in Denmark.

Around 800 United fans have had to pay the premium rate for the first leg of the second–round match at the MCH Arena.

Southampton supporters were charged only £22 when they played at the home of the Danish champions in the Europa League play–off round in August.