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London - Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been told to prove his fitness in Sunday's league game against Hull or risk missing out on a starting place in the side to take on Barcelona in next week's Champions League final in Rome.
The England centre-back has missed the last three matches since sustaining a calf injury in the Champions League semi-final second leg victory over Arsenal at the Emirates on May 5.
Ferguson says he would prefer the 30-year-old plays against Hull in the final league game of the season and thus avoid him having to make a difficult decision ahead of Rome.
"I am hoping he will be fit for Sunday, if not he is doubtful for Wednesday that is for sure," said the United manager.
"I think he needs a game going into the Champions League final because him having not played for three weeks is too much.
"The plan is for him to start training with us on Thursday and once we get football training we will have a better idea of his availability for Sunday.
"I think he is probably fit to play Wednesday but whether I would start him without a game is another matter."
Ferguson also said that versatile defender John O'Shea was assured of a starting the final against Barcelona.
The Ireland international has filled in at right-back because of injuries to Wes Brown and Gary Neville and the United manager said he was keen to reward the 28-year-old's unstinting service.
"He can play anywhere for me: all along the back four, midfield - he's even played in goal for a short period - and because of injuries to Gary and Wes he's been a permanent fixture," said Ferguson.
"He takes his place in Rome because he deserves it, because he is ahead of everyone now. He is a fantastic, top professional."
