"United will come back stronger"

Old Trafford legend Bryan Robson has warned Premier League teams that Manchester United will be hungrier than ever next season.

United had a relatively barren 2009/10 campaign, with only the Carling Cup to show for their efforts.

They were pipped to the Premier League post by Chelsea while a moment of madness from right-back Rafael Da Silva cost them the Champions League quarter-final against losing finalists Bayern Munich.

The failures will only spur the team on, according to Robson.

In comments reported by the Daily Mirror, he said:"I'm sure United will come back stronger next season and will be thinking only of winning the title again.

"You need a little fortune to win trophies and that's what United had in the previous three years, with not too many injuries, so the gaffer was able to play his strongest team.

"But their luck ran out last season with a succession of injuries, especially in ­defence. He didn't have the options and that cost him.

"At the same time it gave opportunities to younger players and they will be better for the experience and I think you'll see the benefit of that next season.

"Jonny Evans has been terrific. He looks as if he's going to be a top centre-half.

"You have to say Rafael Da Silva's rash moment and sending off against Bayern Munich cost United in the Champions League, but he'll learn from that."

While fans are worried the side is over reliant on Wayne Rooney for goals (the striker was the top scorer for the Red Devils. The second highest? Own goals), Robson is of the opinion that the current crop of young strikers need to be given a bit more time to mature.

"The gaffer will give front players like Federico Macheda and Danny Welbeck the chance to prove themselves.

"He's patient because of their age and the knowledge that they need time.

"The player I really think will come through is Gabriel Obertan. He's been used mainly wide, but I think his best position might be through the middle.

"All of these young players are on a learning curve and the next season or two will be very important.

"They will determine whether or not they are genuine Manchester United players."