Ferdinand to start against Porto
Rio Ferdinand could be key man for Man United
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Tuesday, 14, Apr 2009 09:24
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Rio Ferdinand will start against FC Porto in the Champions League.
Ferdinand had been struggling with a groin injury, which has seen him miss the last three games, including the first-leg at Old Trafford last Tuesday. The defender resumed training last week and he will now line-up alongside Nemanja Vidic in central defence.
Ferguson will be relieved to have Ferdinand back as United can't afford to concede against Porto after a disappointing 2-2 first-leg draw left them in a precarious position.
"We think Rio is fit," said Ferguson."He trained on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and he will start tomorrow.
"There is a lot of quality in Rio's game, so he is obviously going to make a difference. Also it gets us back the partnership between Rio and Nemanja Vidic, which has been the cornerstone of our great defensive performances this season."
United have had to deal with a long list of injured players recently, but their injury woes seem to be easing as Brazilian duo Rafael and Anderson have also been included in the squad to face Porto.