The Times of London says Manchester United signed Park Ji-sung for his stellar play rather than his marketing potential in Asia.

Calling the midfielder fiercely energetic and one of Asia's few bona-fide superstars, the British daily on Thursday said Park will make an impact on the field instead of just boosting shirt sales in the growing Far East market.

United spokesman Phil Townsend was quoted as saying his club buys players only on the basis of what they can do for the team, and that those who have seen Park play for PSV Eindhoven or South Korea knows he is of top quality.

The daily also said Park offers United a flexibility and drive lacking from the midfield over the past two seasons.

Park could see action as early as July 23rd, when United plays the Hong Kong national team in the first of four friendly games in Asia late next month.

In his three seasons with PSV Eindhoven of The Netherlands, the player scored 14 goals in 64 games to help the team win Dutch league titles in 2003 and this year.