Duo set for Cup return

Wayne Roooney and Edwin van der Sar are both likely to be back in action on Saturday for United's FA Cup third round trip to Aston Villa, but Carlos Tevez remains a doubt.

Rooney has missed United's last two matches with a virus, while van der Sar has not featured since the 1-0 win over Liverpool on 16 December because of a groin problem.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the Dutch keeper will start in goal at his pre-match press conference and is hopeful Rooney will also play some part in the game.

Tevez, meanwhile, injured his ankle in the Reds' 1-0 win over Birmingham on New Year's Day and is still struggling with the knock.

"We'll give him every chance because he's been in such good form, but he remains a doubt," revealed Sir Alex.

The return of Rooney and van der Sar is a big boost for the Reds, and there was more good news on the injury front as United skipper Gary Neville finally appears to be close to a first-team return.

"Gary is doing great," added Sir Alex. "He will play in the Reserves against Everton on Wednesday. I was thinking about taking him down with the rest of the squad to Villa Park, but I think he is best off doing his training and taking part in the Reserves next week."