Manchester United return to South Africa for summer tour on Nelson Mandela Day

UNITED TOUR: Reds to visit South Africa

By Dean Wilkins

Manchester United are returning on a summer tour to South Africa in preparation for the next Premier League season.

The Reds will play AmaZulu FC on the East coast in Durban and Ajax Cape Town next month.

South Africa’s leading mobile operate MTN will sponsor the tour as United play on Nelson Mandela Day, July 18, and on July 21.

Chief executive David Gill said: “The training camp and matches in South Africa will be an important part of our preparations for the 2012/13 season and an excellent chance to renew our acquaintance with our loyal and enthusiastic fans in South Africa.

“Everyone has fond memories of the visits there in 2006 and 2008 and, of course, of the exceptional organisation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup."

Charles Brewer, managing director for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, said: “We are delighted to be delivering Manchester United's pre-season tour to South Africa.

“Using our global network we'll be supporting the team in their preparation for the Durban and Cape Town legs of the tour, ensuring that the team are ready to deliver success on the pitch ahead of the 2012/13 season."