Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson feels Febian Brandy's loan spell at Swansea City will stand the young striker in good stead for the future.

Having signed on loan at the Liberty Stadium until the end of the season, Sir Alex has been keeping a close eye on the progress of his rising young star.

And despite his recent dismissal at Bristol Rovers, Britain's most successful manager (apart from Roberto!) has been pleased with his progress at the Swans.

"We've been monitoring Febian's progress from Old Trafford,'' explained Sir Alex. "I also watched him for myself play live on Sky in Swansea's JPT tie against MK Dons.

"I know he's been used mostly as a substitute, but the reports I've had from Swansea manager Roberto Martinez have been good. He has said he's done very well for them.

"From Febian's point of view it's been good for him to join a successful club in League One. It's good experience for him.''

Manchester United and new England skipper Rio Ferdinand has also been keeping in close contact with the 18-year-old.

"Sir Alex and Rio have just told me to enjoy the experience,'' explained Brandy. "And that's what it is - experience.

"I was bitterly disappointed when I was sent off at Bristol Rovers, especially when I felt it wasn't a red card. But having taken time out to think about it, I realised it was all part of the learning process.

"I'm still a young lad and it was the first time I had ever been sent-off in my career. But I know that an experience like that is one of the reasons why I've gone out on loan.''

As it happened, Brandy's three-match ban coincided with the England Under-19 international picking up a calf injury.

But having served his suspension and recovered from the calf problem, Brandy is now looking to finish the season with a flourish.

"I didn't really know anything about Swansea before I came,'' he added. "I had an offer to go on loan to Norwich, a Dutch club and a few others, but Sir Alex recommended Swansea. I'm glad he did because I've really enjoyed it here.

"Obviously I would have liked a few more starts, but the manager knows what he's doing and I've just got to wait for my chance.

"I'm just glad I've been able make an impact coming off the bench by winning a couple of penalties and scoring a few goals myself.

"But it's not about me. It's about the team doing well and I'll be delighted if I can say I played a part in Swansea's success at the end of the season.

"I firmly believe Swansea can do well in the Championship. The players have the ability to play at a higher level and, just as important; they play the game the right way - on the deck.

"I just hope I can play a part in the last six games and help the Swans finish the job.''

INTERVIEW: Jonathan Wilsher