Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson ready to face Stoke's 'jolly green giants'

Sir Alex Ferguson: Manchester United manager ready for Stoke test

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Stoke's aerial assault will hold no fears for his side at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Stoke have caused most of the top sides in the Premier League major problems in recent seasons but they have collected just a point against United since returning to the top flight in 2008.

And Ferguson is optimistic that his side can continue their good record against Tony Pulis' side.

"We've got the jolly green giants coming to play against us tomorrow," said the United boss on Friday. "The biggest team in Europe.

"You can get yourself in a tangle about that, because they are a handful at set-piece plays and long throw-ins, but you can't make a terror for yourself."

Ferguson is full of respect for Pulis' accomplishments at Stoke, adding: "Tony has done a fantastic job.

"I can see progress every year, right from the foundations of the club in terms of youth players breaking through into the first team. Continuity brings consistency and they are a formidable outfit now."

Owen

The game will mark the return to Old Trafford of Michael Owen, who joined Stoke after his United contract ran out in the summer.

Ferguson said: "He is a fantastic player but it was difficult to hold on to Michael.

"We had the opportunity to sign Robin van Persie, Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck were improving and developing as players, Wayne Rooney was there, of course, and there are young strikers like (Federico) Macheda, Will Keane, Josh King and Bebe.

"But Michael is a brilliant professional and a top man. I was disappointed to let him go."