Fergie weighs up keeper options

Alex Ferguson has admitted he is facing a Carling Cup goalkeeping conundrum.

Edwin van der Sar is Ferguson’s obvious first choice and, having played in both legs of the semi-final victory over Manchester City, would be regarded as a good bet to feature at Wembley against Aston Villa on Sunday.

However, Van der Sar has suffered two long injury-enforced absences this term and was allowed time off on compassionate leave over Christmas when his wife Annemarie suffered a stroke, allowing both his deputies long runs in the side.

Tomasz Kuszczak played in the opening round against Wolves and the quarter-final victory over Tottenham, which formed part of an extended run in the side, while Ben Foster was in goal for the fourth-round triumph at Barnsley.

Foster would appear to be the outsider of the three, even though he was the penalty shoot-out hero against Tottenham at Wembley last season and was also recalled for Tuesday night’s victory over West Ham.

“I have three good goalkeepers and I need to choose the right one,” said Ferguson.

“I gave Edwin the rest on Tuesday because he has come through quite a tough period with his injury and also his family situation.

“He has not missed a game, including all the midweek ones, so this week was an opportunity to give him a rest.

“Now I have to consider what is the right thing to do on Sunday.”