Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have Tom Cleverley back in action.

Ferguson felt much of his side's brilliant early season form was due to the injection of pace Cleverley brought to their ranks, which is why he was so happy to speak of him previously.

And, even though the pair were sat alongside each other on Wednesday afternoon, Ferguson did not hold back.

"Tom is a very clever footballer," said the Scot.

"He has a quick brain in terms of his appreciation of passing.

"An hour was fantastic for him last week after his long spell out. Hopefully he will play a full game (on Thursday). It is good to have him back."