Debut hero

Howard stakes claim for starting role at United

CARDIFF, Wales (AP) -- Tim Howard has his first trophy with Manchester United and a strong chance of usurping Fabien Barthez as its No.1 goalkeeper.

And the Premier League doesn't start for another week.

Howard saved two spot kicks Sunday as United beat archrival Arsenal 4-3 on penalties in the Community Shield, the traditional season curtain raiser.

It was Howard's first competitive appearance for United after starring for them on their preseason U.S tour. Howard joined from the New York/New Jersey MetroStars last month.

Last season's No.1 'keeper Fabien Barthez didn't make the bench.

In temperatures of 41 degrees (106 Fahrenheit) -- almost unheard of in Britain -- Howard kept his cool and earned praise from new boss Alex Ferguson.

"He didn't have a lot do," Ferguson said. "He never had to do any real saves apart from the penalty kicks. I think he showed us in the States is that his temperament is fine.

"I couldn't fault him today. He enjoyed the penalty kicks. He shows no fear, which is terrific to see, his spring is great, his agility. We're very pleased with him."

Barthez played in United's final preseason match against Sporting Lisbon on Aug. 6. United lost that match 3-1 -- after winning all four of its U.S tour with Howard in goal.

Ferguson wouldn't say if Howard would start when United opens its Premier League title defense against Bolton next Saturday.

Howard couldn't stop a 30-yard (meter) Thierry Henry free kick early in the match for Arsenal to level the score, but it didn't phase him.

"We were confident in him and he was really good on his line," United defender Mikael Silvestre said.

Silvestre, who scored United's goal, said Howard was more impressive than Arsenal's Jens Lehmann, who also made his goalkeeping debut Sunday.

"We may have had an advantage there today," Silvestre said.

Howard first saved from Giovanni van Bronckhorst's penalty low to his right and then dived to his left to keep out Robert Pires' spot-kick.

Howard stood with arms outstretched in joy as his teammates hugged him in celebration.

It was United's first trophy since star midfielder David Beckham left for Real Madrid.

Kleberson permit clears way for United move

United confirmed that their application to the British government's Department of Employment for a permit for the 24-year-old World Cup winning midfielder had been successful.

The English champions had already agreed a fee for Kleberson with Atletico Paranaense and personal terms with the player.

United sealed the deal over three weeks ago when the Brazilian midfielder, who was a target for Leeds United earlier this year, had a medical.

The decision means Manager Alex Ferguson can now formally complete his fourth signing of the summer.

Kleberson will join new faces Eric Djemba Djemba, David Bellion and goalkeeper Tim Howard at Manchester United.

The midfielder is expected to be available for United's opening Premier League game of the season against Bolton Wanderers on Saturday. He could also figure in a friendly against Stoke City on Wednesday.

Ferguson made his move for Kleberson after selling David Beckham and learning of Chelsea's interest in Juan Sebastian Veron earlier this summer.

"I initiated interest in Kleberson because I felt he was someone who could be an outstanding player in the future for Manchester United," Ferguson told the Manchester Evening News earlier this month.

"Kleberson is young and we certainly think he is one of the most progressive young players in Brazil at the moment. He is athletic, creative and quick," he added.

 

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