Staff : First team : Ben Foster

Ben Foster's arrival at Old Trafford was a whirlwind affair. The gifted goalkeeper was on loan at Wrexham when he caught the eye of Sir Alex Ferguson in the Football League Trophy final.

In Cardiff to watch his son Darren in action, the Gaffer noted Foster's fine performance, who kept a clean sheet as Wrexham won 2-0 after extra time.

Foster was scouted in the following three months, before being prised away from Stoke City - without ever playing for the Potters' first team - for an undisclosed fee in July 2005. He's never been one to stay in a place too long, with five loan spells in three years at the Britannia Stadium, and that precedent continued after his move to Old Trafford.

After just one and a half pre-season friendlies for United's Reserves, Ben was farmed out to Watford on a season-long loan. Although tipped by many for relegation, the Hornets had a stunning campaign - thanks in no small part to Foster's performances.

Aidy Boothroyd's side returned to the Premiership after beating Leeds in the final of the Championship Play-offs. For the second year in a row Foster kept a clean sheet at the Millennium Stadium as Watford won 3-0.

Just when it seemed his perfect season couldn't get any better, Foster was a shock call-up to the standby list for England's 2006 World Cup squad.

Although his presence wasn't required in Germany, his consideration for international football demonstrates what a fine prospect United have signed.

Position: Goalkeeper
Appearances: 0
Goals: 0
Joined United: 19 Jul 2005
Transfer Fee: Undisclosed
Previous Clubs: Stoke City
United Debut: On loan at Watford during 05/06
International England