Rio Ferdinand is fit and back in Manchester United's squad after making a successful recovery. Ferguson has also had to contend with the news that Michael Carrick will be out for three weeks after seeing a specialist in London on yesterday about a foot problem, but Ferdinand's availability is a major boost as United embark on an important run of games. "Rio had a nightmare last season with injuries," Ferguson said. "He missed the World Cup because of injury and the main incentive for him now is to stay fit because if he stays fit he is going to be picked for England because he is still their best centre-back."

Rio Ferdinand has not played since a training-ground collision with his England colleague Emile Heskey ended with him damaging knee ligaments and missing the World Cup. "We have three big games in eight days," Ferguson said. "He's ready to start [against Everton] and after that we have Rangers on Tuesday and Liverpool on Sunday so it's great to have him back."