United suffer FA Cup injury double-whammy

Manchester United have suffered a double defensive injury blow ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup final.

Gabriel Heinze is almost certain to miss out after failing to recover from his ankle ligament injury, while Alex Ferguson also revealed Gary Neville is a major doubt with a groin strain.

The loss of Heinze is a major blow, even if it had been anticipated by the United boss as soon as the forceful Argentinian full-back picked up the injury against Newcastle three weeks ago.

The likely absence of Neville robs the Red Devils defence of some valuable experience, although it could be good news for his brother Phil, who could step into the right-back role.

“Gary doesn’t want to be ruled out at the moment but I do not see him playing,” said Ferguson. “Gary is a concern because he is not training. We have got medical people working on him and we will give him every chance but it is not looking good.

“It is very disappointing because they are both experienced players. I particularly feel for Gary. He has been fantastic for us this season, he’s a real winner and he deserves to play but I do feel it’s beyond him.”

Heinze’s absence is likely to see France international Mikael Silvestre start at left-back, with Wes Brown partnering Rio Ferdinand in the heart of United’s defence as they look to win the trophy for a record 12th time and inflict a further defeat on Arsene Wenger’s men.