Neville ruled out of FA Cup final

Neville missed Man Utd's title run-in

Manchester United have confirmed that Gary Neville will not play in the FA Cup final because of an ankle injury.

The 32-year-old United captain has been out of action since 17 March and the club have confirmed he will not play again this season.

A club statement said: "Gary Neville has undergone an exploratory operation on his right ankle and he will miss the FA Cup final."

Ryan Giggs is set to lead out United in the first final at the new Wembley.

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Neville's place in defence will go to either Wes Brown or John O'Shea.

England boss Steve McClaren will also have to ponder his options.

He will be without Neville and his understudy Micah Richards for the 1 June friendly against Brazil and the vital Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on 6 June.