Relief Over Rio Injury

United have received a major boost ahead of next Tuesday's Champions League semi-final, second leg against Arsenal, with news that Rio Ferdinand has a good chance of being fit.

The influential 30-year-old defender was forced off in Wednesday's 1-0 first-leg win over the Gunners after a blow to his torso. The initial prognosis of two-to-three weeks was alarming. But, although he won't play against Middlesbrough on Saturday, Rio has a good chance of making the trip to the Emirates Stadium.

"Rio's scan revealed no crack or break to his ribs," Sir Alex confirmed. "There was some bruising to his lung, which is why he coughed up blood on the night.

"He's definitely out of Saturday's game against Boro, but we're hopeful for Tuesday against Arsenal. We should be able to get him training again on Sunday, but he didn't train today (Friday)."