Bastian Schweinsteiger received a warm welcome from the Old Trafford faithful

Manchester United new boy Bastian Schweinsteiger says he is "surprised" at how warmly he has been received by fans.

The World Cup-winning Germany midfielder has vowed to help the Old Trafford club return to former heights after signing a three-year contract following his move from Bayern Munich last month.

He came off the bench to make his United debut an hour into their season-opening win at home to Tottenham and has told Bild newspaper that is enjoying life in Manchester so far.

He said: "For me, it was a big surprise to see how many supporters welcomed me with warmth and enthusiasm at the opening league game against Tottenham at Old Trafford. It gave me goose bumps.

"I can promise I'll do everything I can, using all my experience, to try and help the club to reach the same international level as Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern."

And Schweinsteiger says he would love to come across his former team mates at Bayern during his stint with United.

Schweinsteiger has signed a three-year contract with United

"It's possible that over the next three years we'll meet in the Champions League," he said. "That would be a really good clash."

One match report playfully suggested that the United new boy had "eaten too much choucroute" but Schweinsteiger has not taken offence.

"The English have a particular sense of humour!" he added.