Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that he had never heard of Michu before the Spaniard moved to Swansea City.

United face Swansea today with the joint-Premier League top scorers, Michu and Robin van Persie, set to line up against each other.

Ferguson praised opposite number Michael Laudrup for his vision when signing Michu for just £2m in the summer.

"I had never even heard of [Michu] before he came to Swansea," Ferguson told reporters. "In fact, I think I am going to have a word with our scouting department.

"Laudrup has tapped into the Spanish market a bit like Alan Pardew tapped into the French market for Newcastle United, and in Michu he has a very good player.

"He is a good finisher. The two goals he scored against Arsenal recently showed that."

Ferguson also praised Michu's versatility in being able to play up front and in midfield.

The match between Swansea and Manchester United takes place at the Liberty Stadium today at 1.30pm.