Cole expects Lukaku to win fitness race

Former Manchester United star Andy Cole believes fellow striker Romelu Lukaku will give his all to play in the Emirates FA Cup final against Chelsea, even if he is not fully fit.

The Belgian attacker suffered an ankle injury in last month's win over Arsenal but has now returned to the Aon Training Complex after undergoing intensive treatment in his homeland.

Manager Jose Mourinho admitted he may only be able to name his top scorer among the substitutes on the big day at Wembley, but remains hopeful on the fitness front and will be awaiting positive news in the build-up to Saturday.

Lukaku did recently suggest after the 3-2 triumph at Manchester City that he was feeling ill throughout the derby but soldiered on and showed his commitment to the cause, and it is certain he will be busting a gut to be ready in time to face his former club.

"I've watched him all season, like everybody else," Cole told ManUtd.com. "I think he looks fantastic. To get the goals he's got this season, in a team that doesn't create loads of chances for him, he's done brilliantly and really well considering it's his first season at Old Trafford.

"It's not nice when you've got that little bit of rhythm and pick up an injury. You know you've got a massive game coming up and are a bit touch and go or whatever. So it may be difficult for him but, hopefully, he'll be passed fit and do the best he can.

"It's not every year you're going to get to the FA Cup final. There are no doubts that, if he's even 90, 80 or 70 per cent fit, he'll give it a go."