Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand could make their massive clash at Chelsea.

The Daily Star says United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled his England centre-back out of tomorrow's Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow.

Ferdinand, whose form has been questioned this season, has been hampered by a succession of injuries since developing a back problem last December.

Reports yesterday suggested the 30-year-old could need up to eight weeks' rest.

But Ferdinand recently said his back was no longer an issue and Ferguson claimed his £30m centre-half had a calf injury.