Fergie's first-choice right-back revealed

Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted that John O'Shea is the man in possession of the United right-back slot and could start on Sunday.

The Republic of Ireland defender was rested from Tuesday's line-up that faced Besiktas, but has not lost his claim for the right-back shirt when Manchester City visit Old Trafford, according to the Reds boss.

Ferguson told the club's official website: "The area in which we've done well is compensating for the changes at right-back over the last two or three years.

"We had Wes Brown come in place of Gary Neville, then John O'Shea and Rafael Da Silva shared the spot and did well. It may be O'Shea's position now, who knows?"

Ferguson praised Patrice Evra's impressive play and also revealed he has no concerns about Ben Foster's extended run in the first team while Edwin van der Sar recovers from injury.

"Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are the foundation in defence, and then there is Patrice Evra. He's a fantastic player who's improving all the time," he said.

"Edwin van der Sar may still be two or three weeks away from coming back, but when you see the save Ben Foster made from Jermaine Jenas at Spurs, you don't worry too much."