Alan Smith has been included in Manchester United's squad to tour the Far East.
Alan Smith has been included in Manchester United's squad to tour the Far East, casting doubt on suggestions that he is set to leave Old Trafford.United have reportedly accepted a £6million bid from Middlesbrough for the England international, who has sought assurances over his future from manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The club's attempts to sign Argentina star Carlos Tevez from West Ham have led to increased speculation that Smith is surplus to requirements, but the player seems determined to fight for his place.
With Louis Saha and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer out injured and Giuseppe Rossi on an extended break after playing for Italy in the European U21 Championship, Smith gets his chance to shine as one of only two recognised strikers alongside Wayne Rooney.
Also missing from the travelling party are skipper Gary Neville, Park Ji-sung and Ben Foster through injury, plus Anderson and Gabriel Heinze, who like Tevez are involved in the Copa America final on Sunday.
Kieran Richardson, who would not have been in the squad due to his England U21 commitments earlier in the summer, stays at home is expected to finalise his £5.5million move to Sunderland.
Jonny Evans, who spent last season on loan at Sunderland, is included along with Darron Gibson, Danny Simpson, Chris Eagles and Phil Bardsley.
New signings Owen Hargreaves and Nani, meanwhile, are expected to make their first appearances for United as they play four matches, starting with a game against Urawa Red Diamonds on Tuesday.
