Keane, who spent 12 years at the heart of United’s dominating midfield before controversially departing Old Trafford in 2005, took up the assistant manager post at Villa Park in the close-season.

In a few short weeks FCUM, who have soared up the ranks of English football to the seventh tier, will celebrate their greatest achievement yet when they open their new £6million Broadhurst Park stadium in Moston.

Not long into his first season in charge, Van Gaal’s United sit fourth in the Premier League after 12 games but are yet to replicate the performance levels of the side during Sir Alex’s 26-year reign.

United’s first away triumph of the season at Arsenal on Saturday was more due to a profligate showing from Arsene Wenger’s men than any scintillating brilliance from Van Gaal or his charges, and the Dutchman must be counting down the days until the January transfer window swings open.

Smalling marshalled an inexperienced backline including rookies, Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett as Louis van Gaal’s side recorded their first away victory of the season.

United currently sit in fourth place in the Premier League after scraping a 2-1 win over Arsenal at The Emirates on Saturday evening.

Les Parry, who won the Medical & Sports Science Professional crown at the North West Football Awards on Tuesday, is convinced United’s academy will continue to produce talented youngsters.

Welbeck, who came through the prestigious youth ranks at Old Trafford, moved to The Emirates in a £16million deal on deadline day in the last transfer window and has so far bagged five goals for Arsenal.

Internet humour website The LADBible is facing an internet backlash after it published the work details of Manchester United internet sensation Andy Tate.

Ex-Manchester United first-team coach Mike Phelan has joined Championship outfit Norwich City in the same role.

The 28-year-old Portuguese is currently on loan at Sporting Lisbon after struggling to make an impact at Old Trafford in recent seasons.