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Ex-Man Utd youth guru Harrison: Van Gaal will support academy

Manchester United youth guru Eric Harrison says Louis van Gaal won't ignore the academy.

Harrison - the man behind the Class of 92 - says Van Gaal's commitment to youth will make him an ideal fit at United.

"I'm really excited about him coming in," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I've done a lot of research on him and I know he likes young players. Like Sir Alex, he will put them in and give them a chance."

But Harrison says it is up to Cleverley to prove he can overcome last season's disappointment.

"I've got to be honest - I like the lad, but at this moment he is not as good as he was two seasons ago," he said. "He didn't do too well last season and it all got on top of him.

"I look at body language. Normally it is exceptional, but last season it wasn't.

"I hope he does well under Van Gaal and whatever formation he chooses, it should suit Tom.

"I can understand why his team-mate speak well of him. He is such a determined boy. When he loses the ball, he chases to get it back. His work rate and attitude are top class.

"His technical ability is very good too. When you combine the two, you've got some player."

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