Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is confident skipper Gary Neville can shake-off his latest injury.

Neville, who is 33 on Monday, has not played since damaging ankle ligaments last March.

United boss Fergie said: "What Gary needs is a bit of luck. He's had setback after setback.

"It is only because of his character he is able to persist in his efforts to get back.

"He is not far away but what he can't afford is another niggling injury, which can happen."