Returning Owen Hargreaves like a new signing, Ferguson says
Ferguson is delighted with Hargreaves' comeback
Friday, 19, Mar 2010 05:20
by Sam Ross.
Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed that Owen Hargreaves' return from injury after 18 months on the sidelines is like a new signing for Manchester United.
The midfielder finally made his comeback, after a year and a half out with tendonitis, for the reserves on Thursday. Hargreaves managed to play 45 minutes against Burnley reserves and Ferguson believes he could play a crucial role as his side bid to hold on to their title.
He said: "It's a boost to the boy. We should have him for the end of the season. He is like a signing, bringing him into the group at this stage of the season."
But Hargreaves will not be ready for this Sunday's showdown with Liverpool and Ferguson admits the 29-year old needs a few more games before he is fully back in contention.
He said: "We expected the recovery to be quicker, but I think he will need a couple of games for the reserves and then he will be ready for the first team."
Meanwhile the United boss has slammed the Football Association's [FA] disciplinary system as being "dysfunctional".
Ferguson's outburst followed the FA's decision not to punish Steven Gerrard for appearing to swear at referee Andre Marriner during Liverpool's league game against Wigan.
The Liverpool captain will line up against Ferguson's side and the United manager admits he was not at all surprised that Gerrard did not face a ban.
He said: "I didn't expect anything to happen to Steven Gerrard. It [the disciplinary system] is a dysfunctional unit. I don't know what they are doing.
"There is no consistency for a start and I didn't expect to get any. I am not too bothered about it. They can do what they want down there. It is crazy at times."