Ferguson Remains True To His Word As United Begin January Business

Federico Macheda has revealed that Rio Ferdinand advised him to join QPR on loan, with the Manchester United striker planning on making the most of his time with the newly promoted Premier League club.

Macheda has struggled for game time at Old Trafford this season, with competition for an up-front spot rife with the likes of Javier Hernandez, Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov and Danny Welbeck boasting top form.

And after the 20 year old played, and scored, against Crystal Palace in United's shock loss to the lower league side in November, Sir Alex Ferguson revealed he would send his younger players on loan to build more game time rather than being left to the bench.

And as QPR confirmed they had agreed a deal with United for Macheda, the Italy Under 21 international said that he wanted the move on Ferdinand's word.

"I spoke with Rio and he told me that QPR is a very good club and that if I did come here it would be good for me and would help me to develop as a player," he explained, as reported in Metro.

"I am looking forward to this challenge.

"Now I want to work hard for the team and for the fans."

Ferdinand's brother Anton currently plays for QPR, and will no doubt be helping Macheda settle into the west London side.

Neil Warnock is set to bolster his squad in all areas this January, and believes that the striker will seriously help the club in their bid to escape relegation.

"Federico is not getting a regular game at United quite obviously because of the quality of the squad they've got," he said.

"Everybody in the league is in envy of what Sir Alex has there, but what he is trying to do is get Federico some game time in the Premier League.

"I am sure he is still a part of their future plans.

"I believe this can really work for us because he is positive and always in and around the box. He can finish too.

"He puts defenders under pressure, he's a strong lad and he's got a yard of pace as well.

"If we can get him the ball in the right areas I am sure he can get us a few goals."

Youngsters Ezekiel Fryers and Ravel Morrison are tipped to leave United on loan this month, as Ferguson starts his January business. Paul Pogba is also rumoured to be temporarily leaving the club, but this would only be the case if the Frenchman signs a new deal at Old Trafford to extend his contract.