Kleberson, Neville impress in reserve outing

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson took time out tonight to cast his eye over Brazil midfielder Kleberson.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson took time out tonight to cast his eye over Brazil midfielder Kleberson.

The £6 million purchase from Atletico Paranaense made his first appearance for the club and played a full game for the reserves at Altrincham.

A crowd of about 1,000 turned up to see the World Cup winner make his bow against Blackburn.

Kleberson, who arrived at Old Trafford last week after his work permit was approved, proved he was in good shape by staying the course.

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He could now come into contention for the match against Newcastle on Saturday at St James's Park.

So too could England defender Gary Neville after a 64-minute run-out.

He had only returned from a broken foot when he suffered a torn hamstring against Celtic in the first game of United's American tour.

Kleberson almost put United ahead in the 25th minute with a fierce 20-yard shot which forced goalkeeper David Yelldell to make a full-length save.

With manager Graeme Souness looking on, Blackburn secured the points with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Ciaran Donnelly and Egil Ostenstad.

PA