I'm average, but Fergie backs me
Gabriel Obertan admits he was shocked to join Manchester United after playing like Mr Average. The France U21 winger had a nightmare year at Bordeaux and was even shipped out on loan to minnows Lorient. He said: "It was flattering and surprising to know of United's interest. I had difficulties last season. I knew United had followed me but I didn't think it would happen this season. Sir Alex put me at ease. He told me he knows my qualities and my weaknesses and that he's not interested a lot in what I did before. It's my potential that interests him. He has confidence in me despite my average last season."
Anthony Kastrinakis, The Sun
Gary Neville says Michael Owen has extra incentive to do well at Old Trafford this season: he will want to earn a place in the England squad at next summer's World Cup in South Africa. "I don't think Michael moved to United for England. He's moved to improve Manchester United. But the opportunity is there for him."
Sunderland are closing in on the £5million capture of young Reds striker Fraizer Campbell, according to the Times. Steve Bruce is said to be in talks with the player to negotiate wages.
The Sun, who lambasted the player after England's 2006 World Cup exit, praises Cristiano Ronaldo for a "gracious" exit to Spain. "In the end, [he] showed he does have a bit of class," writes Steven Howard in a piece entitled, "Bye Ron... we WILL miss you!"