Dong close to Man Utd clearance

Dong scored United's winner in the friendly against Kaizer Chiefs

Sir Alex Ferguson says Dong Fangzhou will qualify for a European passport in December, which will enable him to start training with Manchester United.

The Chinese forward signed for United two-and-a-half-years ago but can only feature in pre-season friendlies as he does not qualify for a UK work permit.

Dong, 21, has been on loan at Belgian side Royal Antwerp since his arrival.

"Dong qualifies for his European passport in December and that is good news for us," said Ferguson.

"He has played four times for China already, so clearly he has a lot of potential.

"He has the speed and physicality and his technique is improving all the time."

Dong replaced Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the friendly with Kaizer Chiefs and scored United's winner six minutes from time.