Source: SKY_Sports
Fergie plans Boro changes
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he will make wholesale changes to his side to face Middlesbrough.[LNB] Ferguson is keen to keep his squad fresh for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final with Arsenal next Tuesday and he will rest a number of stars for the trip to Teesside.[LNB]Rio Ferdinand looks almost certain to miss the lunchtime kick-off against Boro on Saturday after picking up a rib injury against Arsenal and Ferguson revealed he could make as many as eight changes to his starting line-up for the trip to relegation-threatened Middlesbrough.[LNB]"I do not think it is right that we have a lunchtime kick-off at Middlesbrough," bemoaned Ferguson.[LNB]"Obviously I will bring some freshness into the team. The defence will be the same, apart from Rio but the midfield and forwards could change completely."[LNB]One man who could be involved at the Riverside is Wes Brown after he came through a couple of reserve-team outings following a foot injury.[LNB]Ferguson said: "Wes has been training with the first team and has played two reserve games.[LNB]"He was with the squad today and there is a definite possibility he could play some part of the game on Saturday.[LNB]"I actually think it is important. I don't think he will start but he will play some part."[LNB]Ferguson also feels the one big advantage Arsenal have is their lack of a pressing need for points at Portsmouth on Saturday, whereas his own team require victory to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.[LNB]"They can play Pat Rice at right-back and Arsene himself at centre-forward on Saturday!" said Ferguson.[LNB]"We have to play a team to win the game."[LNB]PraiseMeanwhile, Ferguson has hailed John O'Shea following his winning goal against Arsenal.[LNB]The Republic of Ireland international was the unlikely hero on Wednesday night and Ferguson has described the versatile performer as a 'great professional'.[LNB]"John O'Shea took the goal really well," added Ferguson.[LNB]"He is a great professional.[LNB]"The boy never complains. He is happy to play anywhere.[LNB]"He has not always been a No.1 choice but he produces 30 performances a season and it is a contribution we are grateful for.[LNB]"He has played in both full-back positions, central defence and in midfield. He is so versatile and offers such great value for us.[LNB]"He has played in most games this season. At the present moment in time, he would be in the team if we got to the final."[LNB]
