RIO STAYING ROY IS GOING

Last updated : 13 August 2002 By Editor

"Rio won't be fit for Wednesday, that's for sure. But his ankle isn't as bad as we thought," Ferguson said.

'By yesterday (Sunday) morning the swelling had gone completely,' he told MUTV. 'He will still probably miss Wednesday's game and he might not make the West Brom match but I would hope he will be fit for the following week. The great news is that it is not as serious as we first thought.'

John O'Shea is expected to replace Ferdinand with Wes Brown next in line whilst Roy Carroll is expected to fill in for Fabien Barthez, who looks certain to miss his fourth consecutive game with a thigh strain.

"I have a few choices but it's the way I prefer it," added Fergie who says he is happy with the way the pre-season has gone and ready for the trip to Hungary. "Mentally we look very strong and our fitness is at the right level. Wednesday's game is the penalty we pay for finishing third in the Premiership. It won't be easy but it's essential we get through."

Ben Williams is tipped to be on the bench as goalkeeping cover; the teenager who was signed from local UniBond League club Trafford is said to be ahead of last season’s signing from Peterborough, Luke Steele.