There Is Still Hope For O'Shea

Sir Alex Ferguson is still hopeful that John O'Shea could play again this season, after initially fearing the Irishman was out for the remainder of the campaign.

The defender has not played for United since November, due to complications with a dead-leg style injury sustained on international duty for the Republic of Ireland.

Earlier this week, Sir Alex was quoted as saying, "He'll probably miss the season now," but in Friday's press conference, the boss was slightly more positive about O'Shea's chances - based on the recovery of another United player.

"Reece Brown, the youth player (Wes Brown's brother), had exactly the same injury as John and all of a sudden, he’s fit," said the manager.

"It looked as though Reece was going to be out for quite a while. He got the injury in October but he’s fit now.

"John will not be back quickly but hopefully we’ll get some of the season from him."