Football story by sport.co.uk, Thu, 21 May 2009 10:38:24 GMT



Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand expects to be fit for the Champions League final. Ferdinand limped out of United's 3-1 semi final second leg win over Arsenal and has not featured since and Sir Alex Ferguson says he must prove his fitness against Hull on Sunday in order to secure a starting place in Rome.But Ferdinand, a Champions League winner last season, remains confident he can help the team become the first side to retain the trophy.


He said: "I've not thought about not playing in the final. It's as simple as that, no chance.


"This has been perhaps the hardest and most important injury battle of my career. There is so much at stake. I haven't even thought much about the actual details of the final.


"I've been so engrossed in my injury that I haven't thought about much else. I'll start thinking about the actual match when I'm sitting on the plane.


Jonny Evans represents a decent alternative should Ferdinand fail to prove his fitness and Ferguson reckons the Northern Ireland ace would be a ready made replacement.


"I would not be bothered one bit if Evans played in the final," he said.


"The kid has had a fantastic season."