Ferdinand fit to face Rovers

Rio Ferdinand will be fit for Manchester United’s local derby at Blackburn on Monday.

Ferdinand had to be replaced during this week’s win over Fulham with a back problem but Alex Ferguson feels the prompt action will ensure his most experienced defender is fit for the Ewood Park encounter.

Nani (ankle) is still sidelined, along with long-term absentees Michael Owen, Anders Lindegaard, Anderson, Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher.

Provisional squad: De Gea, Amos, Rafael, Jones, Smalling, Ferdinand, Evans, Fabio, Evra, Valencia, Park, Scholes, Cleverley, Carrick, Pogba, Giggs, Young, Rooney, Welbeck, Hernandez, Berbatov.