Sir Alex Maintains Owen Hope

Sir Alex Ferguson has reiterated his hope that Owen Hargreaves will be fit for their UEFA Champions League double-header with AC Milan.

United face the Italian giants on 16th February and 10th March, and Ferguson wants to be able to call on Hargreaves.

The England midfielder has been missing for more than a year due to problems in both his knees.

Despite not playing this season, Ferguson included him in his squad for the Champions League and now he hopes to be able to call on him.

"I would like to see him make the squad for the Champions League fixtures against AC Milan," said Ferguson.

"But we won't rush him. We are being patient."

"Owen is alternating his training with the reserve and first-team squads, working for two days and then resting a day.

"It's a matter of him regaining his confidence and when he is able to train every day that will be the moment for him to return to match play."