Monday D-Day for United duo

David Beckham and Rio Ferdinand will know on Monday if they have a chance of being fit to face Deportivo La Coruna in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Beckham has been sidelined with a rib injury for Manchester United while Ferdinand has been troubled with a thigh problem.

Both players are set to join in the football side of training at the beginning of the week after being limited to running.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has been pleased with the way Beckham and Ferdinand have progressed in their recuperation.

"Ferdinand and Beckham are running well and if they get into the football part on Monday they could be considered for the Deportivo game," said Ferguson.

Having them available to face the Spanish side would be a huge shot in the arm for the Old Trafford boss, who has been forced to field depleted sides due to a raft of injuries.

The absence of Beckham and fellow midfield heavyweights Roy Keane and Nicky Butt has heaped a lot or responsibility on Paul Scholes' shoulders.

It is a challenge he has risen to - and he is again expected to be a key player against Deportivo.