RUUD THE SKIPPER

"For Gary, the important thing is he is back," said Ferguson. "He is a vital member of our team with his experience and he's fit for tomorrow.

"At the moment, I think we've had a fantastic response out of Ruud, absolutely brilliant. I think, for Scholes, he was quite happy someone else had the armband. I don't think he was enjoying being captain so, at the moment, I'm delighted with the experience Ruud has and his manner, the demeanor of him, his professionalism. Everything is right and we're getting a great response.

"Obviously, when Gary and Ryan Giggs come back, I have a decision to make but I don't think it's a monumental decision. I think the more important issue at this moment in time is to make sure we win games.’