Bartlett relishing Red Devils tie

Shaun Bartlett hopes to get his Kaizer Chiefs career off to a flying start against Man Utd.

Former Charlton striker Shaun Bartlett says he is hoping to get his Kaizer Chiefs career off to a flying start when English giants Manchester United visit Cape Town for a glamour friendly.

Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils are taking in three games during their tour of South Africa, playing Orlando Pirates on Saturday before taking on Bartlett's new employers on Tuesday.

The former Addicks forward never managed to get on the winning side of United during his time in English football, although he is hoping his new team-mates can help spring a shock and usher in his new career in the perfect fashion.

"The closest we (Charlton) came to beating them is the first home game played against them and I scored two goals," Bartlett told The Star.

"We drew 3-3 with them, that's probably the best we played against them.

"Hopefully I can add to those goals next week and get my Chiefs career off to a good start.

"The players know what to expect and what they are up against because they've seen (United) on television.

"It's a big challenge for the players and a big chance for our players to show what they are capable of doing."

Although World Cup stars such as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo have been omitted from the squad to travel to South Africa, Ferguson has included Welsh winger Ryan Giggs, former England international Paul Scholes and January signing Patrice Evra.

A host of young stars will also feature, including goalkeeper Ben Foster after his tremendous season with Watford, but Bartlett has warned his new team-mates to be particularly aware of Giuseppe Rossi.

The New Jersey-born Italian youth international will be looking to stake his claim for a regular first team role with Ruud van Nistelrooy out of favour, and Bartlett believes the 19-year-old has the ability to torment the Chiefs' defence.

"He is not that big, but he's quite quick and nippy, and can shoot with both feet," Bartlett added.

The game at Newlands is United's first of the pre-season, as Ferguson looks to get his squad into the best possible shape to challenge Chelsea's Premiership monopoly during the coming campaign.