Tom Cleverley signs a new 4-year deal for Manchester United

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has signed a new 4-year deal that is expected to keep him at the club through the 2014-15 season. The 22-year-old has seen a meteoric rise after his inspiring 2nd half substitute performance versus Manchester City in the Community Shield - that earned him starts during United's first four league matches. The Englishman took full advantage by displaying more outstanding play before being injured in the Bolton Wanderers match. Here is what manager Sir Alex Ferguson had to say about his young midfielder:

"Tom is one of the brightest prospects in the English game. For a young boy, he has a good footballing brain which, when coupled with his energy and ability, makes for a player with a fine future ahead of him.It’s the United way to encourage our young players to make their mark in the first team and Tom has grabbed that chance with both hands."

Source: ManUtd.com

Here is what Cleverley had to say about the start to his season:

"It’s been a fantastic start to the season for me, breaking into the first team and getting an England call-up. Having grown up at the club, I’d love to be able to make a contribution to United winning more trophies. We have a squad with great ability and I can’t wait to get started again."

Source: ManUtd.com

Cleverley is expected to return from injury soon but it is uncertain whether he will be available or not for Saturday's upcoming clash with Liverpool FC. During the first four league matches, both he and Anderson were a fantastic duo but the performance of the latter has declined slightly since Cleverley's absence. In this time, Ryan Giggs, Darren Fletcher, and Michael Carrick have begun to grow into the young season. Therefore, it is uncertain who Fergie's first-choice will be in the center of the park when Cleverley returns but everyone is certain to play with a congested fixture list. In the long-term, United have two nice foundation pieces in the central midfield with the 22-year-old Cleverley and the 23-year-old Anderson.