Ferdinand fit to face Gunners

RIO FERDINAND has declared himself fit and ready for Saturday’s Barclays Premier League crunch clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

After being substituted during the latter stages of Manchester United’s win over Middlesbrough, reports emerged that Ferdinand had been sent for a scan following the recurrence of a groin problem.

However United officials were quick to quash speculation the £29.1million defender could be set for a spell on the sidelines, taking the rare step of issuing a statement confirming the player had been training and would play against the Gunners.

And, speaking to MUTV, Ferdinand backed up his club’s stance.

“I don’t know where the reports have come from, I have been training fully this week so there is no problem,” said the defender.

“I got subbed after 75 minutes at the weekend and the manager said it was just to rest me, which I hope was true. If selected then I will definitely be playing against Arsenal.’’

Without question Saturday’s showdown is the biggest game of the domestic campaign so far, although, at such an early stage, Ferdinand doubts whether it could be dubbed a title decider.

“It will be a good statement if we win but I don’t think it will be an outright yes that who wins the game will win the league,” said Ferdinand.

“We need to make sure we give a good account of ourselves and get the points to keep us at the right end of the league.”

Meanwhile United skipper Gary Neville could make his comeback in tomorrow’s Senior Cup tie with Stockport.

Neville has been absent since injuring his ankle against Bolton Wanderers in March and has suffered a succession of muscular problems during his recovery programme.

However, after the longest absence of his career Neville is now on the brink of a comeback.

‘‘It has been too long,’’ he said. ‘‘Missing the end of last season was bad enough but then for it to go into this season is doubly frustrating. Hopefully it's over now and I can get back into the team.’’