Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists Owen Hargreaves is not for sale.

Troubled by tendinitis since before the move from Germany, Hargreaves is now experiencing a second season wrecked by the injury and reports have emerged that Ferguson is looking to offload the £18million man.

However, while Hargreaves is nowhere near a return to action after making just two appearances this term, Ferguson has assured the Calgary-born player his future remains at Old Trafford.

"For Owen's sake it is important we say he is not for sale," said Ferguson.

"Selling the boy is not even under consideration.

"It is a good story. The fact he has been injured a few times since he has been at the club.

"But United people remember what a contribution he made to us winning the European Cup. He was available in the second half of the season and played some important games for us."

Hargreaves has been doing running but no contact work as he tries to combat the pain and in another week, Ferguson expects to send the 27-year-old back to his specialist in Leicester for a further examination.

"We are managing the situation as best we can," said Ferguson.

"It is not an easy one because there is no doubt he is having some pain.

"But he is getting better. We will give it another week and then probably send him back to the specialist in Leicester."

The specialist has previously indicated his satisfaction at the progress being made by Hargreaves.

And Ferguson insists the former Bayern Munich man will eventually get back into the United side on a regular basis.

"Owen is young enough to recover," said Ferguson.

"The specialist is happy with it. He thinks Owen is on the right way.

"It is frustrating though. It is such a tender bit at the front of the knee but I think he will be okay."