Ferguson not planning to recruit

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson claims there is little chance of any arrivals at Old Trafford during the transfer window.

Ferguson has been linked with a number of players but appears comfortable with those at his disposal.

The Scot said: “Everyone is playing a game. It is unlikely we will bring anyone in.”

He is also determined to hang on to his young stars with Real Madrid apparently interested in Cristiano Ronaldo.

“We have never spoken to them and they have never spoken to us,” said the Old Trafford boss. “It is nonsense and tedious.

“Who would not be interested in Ronaldo? That is why we bought him.”

United embark on their FA Cup campaign this evening when they hope to knock out Aston Villa for the second successive season.

Ferguson expects a tough encounter against a side that is progressing well under manager Martin O’Neill.

United, however, are keen to go one better than last season when they finished runners-up to Chelsea.

Ferguson took in Villa’s victory against Tottenham in midweek and said: “They will have a go.

“Villa have some good young players like Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young. So we have some issues to deal with here as they have good experienced players as well. It is a good mix.”

Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will return to the side after recovering from a groin injury. He will replace Tomasz Kuszczak between the posts for the third-round tie.

Wayne Rooney will travel after returning to training following a virus that caused him to miss the victory against Birmingham.

Carlos Tevez remains doubtful after suffering an ankle injury during that game. Ferguson is debating whether to give midfielder Park Ji-Sung another run-out.

Park returned to the starting line-up in midweek after a nine-month absence because of a knee ligament injury.

Ferguson said: “I have a bit of a selection issue here. When you have your first game back, the adrenaline helps you. But maybe there is a little bit of a reaction to that going into the second match. I will certainly give the matter some thought.”

With arrival of Nani and Anderson, Park faces a battle to hold down a regular place in the team.

But the Korean said: “There is always competition for places, especially at Manchester United. I am not afraid of that because I want to improve my game. For the moment I am happy to be back. Playing again has helped my confidence.”