Spector did feature as a second-half substitute during the recent Champions League encounter with Fenerbahce in Istanbul, but Ferguson revealed his intention to let the former Chicago Sockers player further his footballing education away from Old Trafford.

United old boy and current Rovers boss Mark Hughes was quick to express an interest in the left-footed Spector, who was also called up to the USA national squad for the first time in November.

“Hopefully it will provide Jonathan with the chance to play first team football and he will benefit from that more than he would playing for our reserves,” Ferguson told MUTV.

“It is a fantastic move for him and we are sure he will come back a far better player.

“We feel Jonathan has an outstanding chance of becoming a first team player with Manchester United and this move will allow him to accelerate that development.”