Ferdinand battling to be fit

England - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is hopeful defender Rio Ferdinand will recover from calf problems to play in the Champions League final.

The England centre back has been out since the semi-final victory over Arsenal last week, and will miss Saturday's Premier League match against the Gunners. United just needs a draw in that match to win a third straight title

"I'm sure he will be able for the final, but this is one of these calf niggles that usually take 10 days or two weeks," Ferguson said on Friday. "We are giving him the treatment you have to give for these kind of injuries. He's coming along, but he won't be ready for tomorrow. Hopefully he will be available for next Sunday (against Hull).

"He doesn't train. He's receiving treatment at the moment. He's doing work in the gymnasium, cardiovascular work, cycling and that. Nothing more than that."

The Champions League holders play Barcelona in the May 27 final in Rome.