Ferdinand no-show fails to concern Sir Alex

Sir Alex Ferguson stated that key defender Rio Ferdinand was "on course to play" in the UEFA Champions League final against FC Barcelona in Rome despite taking no part in Sunday's 1-0 league win away to Hull City AFC.

Calf problem
Ferdinand was expected to prove his fitness ahead of the final by making a fleeting appearance at the KC Stadium in United's final domestic game of the season, having seen no first-team action for the Old Trafford club since the 3-1 victory at Arsenal FC in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg on 5 May. The 30-year-old's participation on Wednesday was therefore called into question as he bids to recover from a calf injury.

Gibson winner
However, Sir Alex was quick to allay any fears as his side shift their focus to facing Josep Guardiola’s finalists. "Rio is coming along fine," stated the United manager, after Darron Gibson's 25-metre drive had ensured his side headed for Italy with another victory under their belts. "He trained on Saturday and today with the other players who were also training. I think he's on course to play on Wednesday."

Rafael doubt
Defenders Rafael and Wes Brown also picked up slight knocks at Hull, but neither appears likely to rule them out of contention for the showpiece at the Stadio Olimpico. "I took Rafael off [as a precaution] and we'll get him checked on Monday, but hopefully he'll be OK," added Sir Alex. "Wes got a little knock, but given that it was his first game back after so long out we're thankful he's come through well overall."

Youthful team
Ferguson selected only Darren Fletcher, who will miss the Barcelona contest because of suspension, from the side that confirmed a third consecutive Premier League crown by drawing 0-0 with Arsenal last Saturday. His youthful lineup nonetheless proved too strong for Hull, despite Premier League debuts for defender Ritchie De Laet and midfielder Lee Martin, 17-year-old Federico Macheda playing up front and both Danny Welbeck and Rafael still shy of their 19th birthdays.

Bright future
Ominously for the rest of the Europe, Sir Alex believes he has another crop of talents ready to bolster the Old Trafford ranks next season. "We really do have a great bunch of young players and what they need is opportunities like today," added the 67-year-old. "Some of them have played in the League Cup and FA Cup this season which has been good for them and they showed the extra maturity they've gained. They all played their part and hopefully a lot of them will get more chances next season."