Ferdinand boost for United

01 May 2009 12:27
Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Rio Ferdinand has not cracked a rib and could be available for the second leg of Manchester United's UEFA Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.[LNB] The 30-year-old was forced off against the Gunners in the closing stages after colliding with his own goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.[LNB]The England international was immediately rushed off for scans with fears that he could be out for up to three weeks.[LNB]But X-rays have revealed that the defender has not suffered a broken rib and, although he will miss the trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday, he could return on Tuesday against the Gunners.[LNB]The news is a massive boost for the Red Devils as they look to defend a slender 1-0 lead at Emirates Stadium next week.[LNB]"It's good news with Rio," the United boss said.[LNB]Bruising to the lung"It is not a cracked bone, he had a bit of bruising on the lung which was why he was coughing up blood but there has been nothing since then.[LNB]"Hopefully we can get him ready for Tuesday, he seems almost back to normal. But he won't play tomorrow."[LNB]Ferguson had initially voiced his concerns over Ferdinand after seeing the centre-half at the end of the game but now has his sights on getting his charge back into training as soon as possible.[LNB]"Of course when you see it at the time you fear the worst but now it is just a case of getting him back training, hopefully on Sunday, and getting him ready for Tuesday," he added.[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports