FERGUSON PRAYS FOR FERDINAND

Sir Alex Ferguson has said that he is praying for the return of Rio Ferdinand in the Champions League match against Chelsea. Prior the 1-0 first-leg victory at Stamford Bridge, Ferdinand, cursed by back, knee and calf injuries for the past two years, had made 20 appearances for United this season and emerged unbeaten in each one.

Wayne Rooney’s goal six days ago ensured another game was added to Rio’s run, but the 32-year-old defender’s unflappable performance alongside Nemanja Vidic was the foundation on which United’s potentially decisive victory was built.

“That was probably one of Rio’s best performances in a United jersey,” Ferguson said. “He was absolutely magnificent.