The main man: Sir Alex Ferguson arrives at Doha
airport
United they stand: The champions have arrived in Qatar
for a training camp
A united front: Wayne Rooney is back in Qatar
Is he checking the time? Sir Alex looks at his mobile
phone in Doha
Manchester United haven't enjoyed the best of starts to
2010, with an FA Cup defeat to Leeds and a Premier League draw at
Birmingham. What better time then for a mid-season
tonic?
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson and his United stars have arrived in
Doha for a few days of warm weather training, before they head back
to 'Frozen Britain' for next Saturday's home clash with
Burnley.
For United star Wayne Rooney, it is a second trip to Qatar in
two months, having played for England in their friendly defeat
against Brazil in November.
The champions have come under fire at various times this season
due to their stuttering form, but Ferguson could yet have the last
laugh.
United are still only a point off leaders Chelsea in the title
race, face a League Cup semi-final against Manchester City later
this month, and will take on AC Milan in the second round of the
European Cup.
And the club have happy memories of mid-season sunshine.
Remember ten years ago, when United played in Brazil at the World
Club Championship? They came back and cantered to another league
title.