Ferguson to rest United stars

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Manchester United's Euro 2004 representatives can expect a mid-season break.

The Red Devils boss is keen to protect his players from burn-out and the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Scholes will all be rested around December.

Ferguson feels this will prove beneficial for the club's entire season and has already pencilled in the players for a mid-season siesta.

"I will give them two weeks' rest during the season at different periods," said Ferguson.

"These players will have been involved in Euro 2004 so the month of December looks like the month to do that."

United are currently on their pre-season tour to the United States and have taken a squad blended with youth and experience across the Atlantic.

Teenage defender Jonathan Spector impressed in the first game of the trip against Bayern Munich and Ferguson praised the American starlet for his progress during his brief time at Old Trafford.

He added: "He spots danger very well for a young lad. He is very quick and is a good athlete.

"He has only been with us nine months but in that time he has made great strides. He had a good season last year and ended up playing in the reserve team.

"He played in a variety of roles so he has had good experience of English football in his first season."

Meanwhile, reports in Portugal continue to suggest that Rui Costa is weighing up a move to the Premiership giants.

Rui Costa's club Milan insist the playmaker is not leaving San Siro but stories claim he is considering a contract offer from United.