Macheda's United dream

Federico Macheda is dreaming of Champions League success with Manchester United this season.

The 18-year-old, who made such an impact in the second half of last season, has yet to make the bench this term.

Away with the Italy Under-21 side this week, Macheda's absence from the United first-team picture does seem surprising given the praise boss Sir Alex Ferguson heaped on the teenager in the summer.

However, it seems Macheda is happy where he is just now even if at some point in the future he would welcome a return to his homeland.

"One day I would love to return to Italy as it was where I was born and of course I always follow Italian football," he told Italian TV channel Sky Sports 24.

"Maybe one day I will return to Lazio but for now I am happy at Manchester United and it is my dream to play with them in the Champions League this season."

Date Published: 3 September 2009