Ferdinand fit to face Gunners
11 Apr 2008 - 14:50:45
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Rio Ferdinand will be fit for Manchester United's title showdown with Arsenal on Sunday.
The England defender made a quicker than expected return from a foot problem to face AS Roma in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final success over the Italian side at Old Trafford.
The 29-year-old centre-half required three stitches in a gash to his other foot at half-time, but has been passed fit to face the Gunners.
Meanwhile, fellow central defender Nemanja Vidic is on course to return against Blackburn Rovers next Saturday after missing the last two games with a knee problem.
"Vidic is doing very well," revealed Ferguson. "He's not available for Sunday but he should be back for Blackburn."
Elsewhere, the United boss is hoping to end Arsenal's already slim title hopes when they visit Old Trafford.
The Gunners are currently six points adrift of the leaders and require a victory to keep their own title dreams alive.
"Yes (a win for United) that makes it difficult for them. No question," he continued.
"Five games to go is not a lot of leeway for them. They can't afford to drop any points.
"But that doesn't make it any different for us in our preparations for an Arsenal game because they are always very competitive games anyway."