Ferdinand receives injury boost

Ferdinand left the field in agony during Wednesday's 1-0 win at Old Trafford

Rio Ferdinand is set to be fit for Manchester United's Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal as he has not cracked a rib.

The 30-year-old, who misses Saturday's Premier League trip to Middlesbrough, hobbled off during Wednesday's first leg and had a scan on Thursday.

"It's good news with Rio - it is not a cracked bone," said Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferdinand has already made 40 appearances for United this season.

He is now expected to return in time to face Arsenal at the Emirates as United bid for a place in their second consecutive Champions League final.

606: DEBATE Good news - you always feel confident when Ferdinand and Vidic are at the back Clarence Cash

Ferguson added: "Rio had a bit of bruising on the lung, which was why he was coughing up blood, but there has been nothing since then.

"Hopefully we can get him ready for Tuesday, he seems almost back to normal.

"Of course when you see it at the time you fear the worst but now it is just a case of getting him back training, hopefully on Sunday, and getting him ready for Tuesday."