Foster: Pushing for place

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Sir Alex Ferguson is tipping Ben Foster to break back into the England squad following his return to fitness.

The Manchester United goalkeeper collected his sole England cap to date in a friendly against Spain in early 2007 while on loan at Watford.

He missed the bulk of last season due to a knee injury, but is now pushing for a starting spot at United and produced a solid show in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Orlando Pirates.

And United boss Ferguson expects Foster to challenge for the No.1 jersey at both club and international level during the coming season.

Opportunity

"I still believe Ben will be England's goalkeeper for the next few years," said Ferguson.

"We did not expect him to get fit so quickly last season and I did not include him in our European squad.

"When I saw his performance against Derby there was maybe some regret on my part.

"The ability he has he is going to be challenging for a first-team place next season. That can only be good news for England.

"With an experienced goalkeeper like David James coming back in the squad it tells you there is an opportunity for someone like Ben."

No need to panic

However, Ferguson acknowledged that Foster faces a battle to dislodge the evergreen Edwin van der Sar from the United starting line-up.

He added: "It will be difficult for Ben only because he is in competition with one of the best goalkeepers of all time.

"Edwin is a man of great experience and consistency and has looked after himself so well.

"He can play until he is 40. Ben is 24, so can play for the next 14 to 15 years. There is no need for the boy to panic. His time will come."