Sir Alex hopeful of Rooney recovery

Sir Alex Ferguson is optimistic Wayne Rooney will be fit to face FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday night despite the hip injury that forced him to be replaced late in Saturday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Blackburn Rovers FC.

“Sometimes you get these knocks right on the bone but I'm sure Wayne will be OK for Wednesday,” said the Manchester United FC manager, who also expects three other absentees from Ewood Park to be available at the Camp Nou. “Edwin van der Sar, Owen Hargreaves and Anderson should also be fit.”