Alan Smith is determined to win a place in Manchester United’s starting line-up following his £7m move from Leeds.
“I am not prepared to spend time on the bench,” said Smith, who will face stuiff competition for a place in United’s attack from Ruud van Nistelrooy and Louis Saha.
“If you are going to be successful as a team, you need a good squad but I think I’m good enough to play in the team.
“I want to make an impact straight away and hopefully I will be proved right.”
Smith acknowledged that he will have to put up with abuse from angry Leeds supporters, following his switch to Old Trafford.
“Not a lot of people would have been brave enough to make this step,” he told MUTV.
“I know all about the cross-Pennine rivalry and the hostility between the two sets of supporters.
“But I am prepared for what comes with that and I am looking forward to the challenge of playing for Manchester United.
“I can’t wait to get started. I want to prove myself here and win the fans over with my performances on the field.”
Smith admitted that it was his desire to win silverware which ultimately determined where he would move.
“Growing up, I wanted to be the best I could be,” he said.
“I want to win everything I can. That is the biggest reason for coming here.
“Manchester United is a team of winners. They play in every tournament going and I want to become a winner too.”
