I had to gamble on young De Gea after Cech blunder, admits United boss Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that missing out on signing a young Petr Cech persuaded him to take a £20million gamble on David De Gea.

The Manchester United manager surprised many by targeting the 20-year-old Spaniard from Atletico Madrid to replace Edwin van der Sar instead of more experienced candidates.

Safe hands: Sir Alex Ferguson has faith in David De Gea

But Ferguson backed De Gea to be a success at Old Trafford after revealing he has always regretted overlooking a 19-year-old Cech on account of his age.

'I went to see Petr Cech when he was at Rennes,' Ferguson said. 'He was 19 at the time and I said to myself, "He's too young".

'But Chelsea bought him (for £7m in 2004) and he's never been out of the team. So age doesn't matter when you have the ability of a goalkeeper like Petr Cech or, we know, David De Gea has. He's young, he's quick, he has fantastic presence and composure. His use of the ball is outstanding so all of these are things that don't go away.'

One that go away: Fergie regrets not moving for a young Petr Cech

De Gea has been given time off following the European Under 21 Championship and will join United's tour of America on Sunday.

Ferguson's side won their opening fixture, beating New England Revolution 4-1 in front of 51,523 with two goals from Federico Macheda and one from Michael Owen and Park Ji-sung.

The United manager praised the performance of £16m signing Ashley Young and confirmed Antonio Valencia has left Ecuador's Copa America camp and flown to Manchester for treatment after a knock on the ankle he broke last season.