Ferguson defends squad shake-up

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed goalkeeper David de Gea will face Chelsea after missing Manchester United’s 1-1 Champions League draw at Benfica.

Danish goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard was one of eight changes to United’s starting line-up from the 5-0 rout of Bolton over the weekend.

However, the United manager said there was no selection dilemma ahead of Sunday’s Premier League blockbuster at Old Trafford.

“No, David de Gea will play on Sunday, that was the understanding we had before the game and it doesn’t change,” Ferguson told ITV Sport.

The Scot also said Ashley Young would return on the weekend despite being rested in United’s Champions League fixture in Lisbon.

“Ashley Young, we just gave him a rest tonight,” he added.

“I felt that the two games he had with England, and then Saturday’s game with Bolton I think he just needed a little break. He’s new to the club. Obviously he just needed a break, he’ll be fresh for Sunday.”

United did well to come from a goal down to secure a point, with Ryan Giggs’ 20-yeard strike cancelling out Oscar Cardozo’s opener for Benfica.

“We were 1-0 down, and coming back it’s a good part of the game,” Ferguson said

“I thought the first half-hour of the second half we did very well, we maybe should have finished it, the last 15 minutes I think they came back into it. Anders made two terrific saves but I think a draw was probably fair.”

Benfica boss Jorge Jesus felt his side were the better team but lamented their inability to take all three points.

“When you play against players of this level, offensively, you notice things – and their goal from Giggs was a great one.”

“We faced a top team, full of quality and experience and we drew. If there was to be a winner, it was Benfica but a point against United is not bad,” he said.

“We did well because we were supportive, because we defended well and because we created problems for their defence.”

Jesus expected United to win Group C, with his side, Basel and Romanians Otelul Galati to battle for the second qualification spot for the knockout rounds.

“Manchester United are the favourites for the group, at home they will be unbeatable but I stress that leaves three teams competing for second place.”