Manchester United - like Sir Alex Ferguson colourfully pointed-out this week - have always invested in youth, and contributed to some of the greatest International players of all time. Again this season, it looks as though Academy graduates will spur The Red Devils on to success in all competitions...

  Report By: William Taylor, 11:05pm

With just two games gone, football fans could be forgiven for believing that the Premier League trophy is already destined for another year in Manchester. Whether that is with United or City, however, is another question. United's 'noisy neighbours' are getting louder, with Samir Nasri now joining Sergio Aguero and Gael Clichy at the Etihad Stadium this summer. But a trip to Old Trafford this season remains the most daunting task for anyone.

Against Tottenham Hotspur, The Reds looked incredible - the new signings have settled in nicely - and the current crop of youngsters look every bit as Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and David Beckham did at a similar age. The blend of youth, experience and world-class ability that Manchester United have really creates a recipe for success, from domestic to international. It will surely take a very fine performance from anyone hoping to beat them this season.

When a young player breaks into the first team and does well, it is always exciting at any level - when it is apparent that they are a world class player in the making, it is even better. One player who has received many plaudits is Thomas Cleverley. The midfielder spent last season on loan at Wigan Athletic, and was very highly rated there. It is fantastic to see him getting his chance to shine at Old Trafford now. He is not alone though...

Danny Welbeck is another player who has benefited hugely from loan spells with Premier League clubs, and United really are beginning to reap the rewards now. Ritchie De Laet could well do the same next year, but for now he is on loan at Norwich City. The Under Armour Blur wearer has enjoyed loan spells in the Championship before, but making the step up to the Premier League will be great for his development as a player.

Nothing can compare to playing week-in, week-out against some of the finest players in world football - and as a defender he will learn an awful lot. It is so refreshing to see the youth policy being implemented at United. Of course, there are few things that whet a football fan's appetite more than a big new signing, but the sense of well-being in seeing one of your own come good must be right up there.

Let's hope that one of these young talents can go on to be as successful for United as legends such as Giggsy.