Nani, Carrick return for United

Manchester United will welcome back Nani and Michael Carrick for Tuesday’s Champions League visit of Marseille.

But manager Sir Alex Ferguson is still not sure whether or not to play Antonio Valencia from the start.

The Ecuador international made his first appearance since September when he came off the bench against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Saturday, although both Nani (leg) and Carrick (Achilles) missed out.

But when asked whether Nani might return from his gashed leg to face Marseille, Ferguson said: “There’s a good chance. He trained on Sunday also.”

“He and Michael Carrick did, which was a better situation than we had at the weekend and both will be involved against Marseille.”

“It was a fantastic bonus for us to get 45 minutes from Antonio at the weekend considering he’s been out for so long. The question is, whether I can play him from the start or continue with him as a substitute.”

“It’s an important time because we’re involved in three tournaments. The key is to have everyone available.”

Nemanja Vidic missed training on Monday morning but he should be fit enough to face Marseille.

Ferguson added: “Vidic got a knock in Saturday’s game. He got treatment but hopefully he’ll be ok for the match – he’s tough enough – but he couldn’t train this morning (Monday).”

Victory in the FA Cup on Saturday maintained United’s treble challenge, despite their recent wobble which comprised defeats against Wolves, Chelsea and Liverpool.

But Ferguson insists his side have now put those disappointments behind them.

“It’s always the question when you lose a game, how will you recover?” he said.

“But I think Saturday was the recovery. This will be a different type of match but we need to get to a good level to win.”

“We’re experienced enough to do what we’re doing at the moment. The focus is on Marseille tomorrow – they’re a good team. It’s always a terrific atmosphere at Old Trafford and that does help us.”