Veron hopes class will tell

ARGENTINE star Juan Sebastian Veron says that his poor form of last season is firmly behind him and he is ready to show Manchester United what he can do.

After a bright start to his Red Devils career last year, Veron faded badly and endured a troubled end to his first season with United, which culminated in a very poor World Cup campaign.

A reported move back to Serie A never materialised in the summer and Veron is ready to show everyone what is capable of.

A man-of-the-match performance in United's 4-0 Champions League success over Olympiakos - including a wonderful goal - seemed to suggest that the South American was well on his way to recapturing some of the form which established him as one of the best midfielders in the world.

"I have put my lack of form from last season behind me and this is time for a fresh start," said Veron.

"The good thing about football is that you always have a second chance to put things right and gain some revenge for the season just gone.

"Personally, I have to concentrate on working hard to put things right. If you work hard and try to play the way you know you can, finally you will get the result.

"Class and hard work will always tell in the end."

United chief Sir Alex Ferguson is seemingly determined to make Veron a success and he thinks the player will thrive on the challenge.

"The criticism Seba took last season was unfair," said Ferguson. "He has a great challenge, one he will not shirk and he could have a fantastic season because he has all the ability.

"His performance against Olympiakos was exceptional and the way he took his goal was world-class. It is always important to remember what a player can add to the party."

Ferguson also paid tribute to Paul Scholes, who finally looks to have adapted to the forward role in which he struggled last season.

"I think that, mentally, he did not come to terms with his role last season," said Ferguson.

"He has done now. He is far more comfortable with how we are using him. He definitely brings a dimension to our game that we need."

Scholes himself, who complained about the role over the previous 12 months, has admitted that things are going a lot better for him.

"Playing up-front has worked a bit better this season and I have been playing in midfield as well," he said.

"But as long I am in the team, it doesn't matter where I play. We are creating chances and with the players we have, we are capable of scoring."