Fergie's Fledglings will milk it again!

"The event is a huge success story," said the Manchester United boss.

Ferguson has confirmed that his latest batch of hopefuls will defend their Premier crown at this summer's international youth football tournament.

Just hours after his team had eclipsed AC Milan in the Champions League last week, the Old Trafford boss received a presentation from tournament chairman Victor Leonard to mark United's 21 years continuous participation at one of Europe's most prestigious youth championships.

"The quality of the competition is impressive and it has helped provide a valuable education for many of our young players over the years," said Sir Alex.

United will bid to land a third consecutive title in July and a fifth overall. David Beckham was skipper when they secured their first success back in 1991.

Victor and tournament PRO Jim Sandford handed over a specially commissioned Tyrone Crystal piece commemorating United's long association with the event.

Victor said: "Sir Alex has been a huge supporter since Bertie Peacock first approached him about sending a team."

Many United players cut their teeth at the tournament down the years including Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Wes Brown, Jonny Evans and Darren Fletcher.

United have appeared in the last three finals at Premier level, beating Sheffield United 2-1 last summer and California's South Coast Bayern 3-0 the previous year. In 2007 the Red Devils lost 2-1 to Brazilian club side Fluminense.