LOOKING FORWARD

Last updated : 25 November 2004 By Editor

Van Nistelrooy is a doubt for Saturday, after he picked up a calf strain against Lyon.

Louis Saha is out for at least another fortnight after straining knee ligaments.

Gary Neville is still suffering from the virus which saw him miss the second half of Tuesday's game.

Ryan Giggs is expected to be available after missing Tuesday's game with a hamstring injury.

Fergie said:

"Ruud is feeling a bit of a calf strain. He was the same on Saturday [against Charlton], we had to take him off towards the end. We'll just have to have a look at it now and maybe leave him out on Saturday.”

Ahead of the Fenerbahce game:

"Look at the group that contains Barcelona and Milan; if you get drawn against one of those it does not matter where you finish. Real Madrid will almost certainly finish in second at best. There's no sense that you will avoid the top teams by being first and I intend to rest players against Fenerbahce."

Keane said of Ruud’s scoring record:

“I don’t know what it is about European nights for Ruud. It’s nice to be through and we are creating plenty of chances.”

Wes Brown said:

“Ruud has pulled another one out for us again. I’m definitely glad he is on our side not the opposition. We play against him every day and we know his capabilities. He always brings it out in European games.”

Garry Birtles on Sky:

“I’ve always fancied this was United’s competition this year. They are so suited to European football. On Tuesday, they looked as good as anybody in Europe. Lyon were a really classy side and to overcome a team like this is no mean feat.

“With United playing this way, I think any side can be overcome. I know Alex would love another European trophy.

“They will be a match for anyone. People might say it’s a blessing they are not challenging for the title so they can concentrate on the Champions League — but I’m not so sure they won’t be challenging for the title, either.

“He’s [Ruud] a bit like Gabriel Batistuta in that he can suddenly come alive and score even if he is having a quiet game. You know his class will always shine through. I can’t see anyone coming close to his record of 36 goals in 37 games in Europe, it’s phenomenal.”