Hargreaves CL hope for Fergie

Sir Alex Ferguson is still hopeful Owen Hargreaves can make his long-awaited return to action in time to face Milan later this month.

United face the Italian giants on February 16 before the return at Old Trafford on March 10, and Ferguson admits he retains a hope the former Bayern Munich midfielder may be available for the tie.

The England midfielder has not played for more than a year due to serious knee problems but he is finally closing on on a return.

"I would like to see him make the squad for the Champions League fixtures against AC Milan," said Ferguson.

"But we won't rush him. We are being patient."

"Owen is alternating his training with the reserve and first-team squads, working for two days and then resting a day.

"It's a matter of him regaining his confidence and when he is able to train every day that will be the moment for him to return to match play."