Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has hinted at concerns over the future of skipper Gary Neville.

Ferguson said: "I am hopeful Gary Neville can come back. I am sure he can. At 33, it is always difficult if you have been out of the game for a year. But Neville is such a determined character. You would not bet against him coming back.

"He's not bitter about having to fight for his place. He is a low-key type of lad who neither gets up nor down. But he has a great determination and that gives him a chance to return. He is club captain so that is another incentive."