Boothroyd braced for new-look United

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United are still in contention for the Barclays Premiership and Champions League as well as the FA Cup, and Boothroyd knows that Alex Ferguson might have one eye on the challenges ahead when he makes his plans for the Villa Park tie against the Hornets.

Boothroyd said: "It will be interesting to see which Manchester United team is put out. I would imagine that the priority for Sir Alex is to win the Premiership title."

The 36-year-old Boothroyd is 29 years younger than Ferguson and the current campaign is only his second full season as a manager.

Where Ferguson's haul of trophies is admired by everyone in the game, Boothroyd's success in guiding his side to promotion via the Coca-Cola Championship play-offs last season is his only major achievement.

The disparity between the two managers is huge - but Boothroyd paid tribute to Ferguson's ability to "find time for the little people".

Boothroyd continued: "He will always pick up the phone, or phone you back if you can't reach him the first time.

"I have never known him not to call back, which is the mark of the guy.

"We have a good relationship. He has been kind enough to say some nice things about me, and the respect I have for him is huge.

"To do what he has done over 20 years, at the biggest club in the world, is a fantastic achievement."