United were busy in the final week of the transfer window completing deals for Angel Di Maria, Marcos Rojo, Radamel Falcao and Daley Blind.

With the club missing out on European football last season under Sir Alex Ferguson's successor David Moyes, there appears to be an upsurge in optimism among United fans as new boss Louis van Gaal starts to shape his team.

Pearson was impressed by United's performance in the 4-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers last weekend, but he is hoping Leicester will rise to the occasion and build on a solid return to the top flight when the sides clash at the King Power Stadium this Sunday.

"United look like they have a swagger back, they have added quality. Whenever there is a change in manager you can have people who have a short-term impact," he said.

"When you have someone in charge for as long as Sir Alex the transition period will never be easy.

"They have been a huge presence within the English game for a long time. I'm sure they will reignite that at some point.

"We can't be happy with what we've done so far. I don't know what system they will play to start with.

"It will be interesting in itself. They have some very good players, there is no doubt about that. Can we play the game not the occasion?

"The scrutiny and build up to games like this would suggest there is an awful lot at stake. That in itself can bring different pressures.

"We have to get our preparation right and try and not get too wrapped up in the occasion."