Neville set to resume training

No serious damage to United defender's ankle

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 11th December 2007

Neville set to resume training

Neville: Close to return

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Manchester United have been boosted by the news that Gary Neville has no long-term damage to his ankle.

The England international has yet to play for United this season after breaking his right ankle against Bolton in March.

The right-back was sent for surgery after complications developed, and has since suffered several setbacks in his bid to regain fitness.

However, a specialist's examination has now shown the injury is not as serious as feared and he has been given the all-clear to resume training.

"I think Gary will be okay," said United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

"We sent him back to the specialist but the assessment is very good.

"It was more like a scar tissue problem. We will work on that and get him back to normal training sessions next week."

Rooney praise

Meanwhile, Ferguson has paid tribute to the leadership qualities of Wayne Rooney, who is set to captain a youthful United side against Roma in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

Ferguson admits he has partly given in to Rooney's constant pestering, but he also believes the 22-year-old can go on to be a fine captain in future.

"Wayne is a player with great determination and spirit," said Ferguson.

"They are qualities similar to those of two or three of our captains of the past such as Steve Bruce, Bryan Robson and Roy Keane.

"Sometimes these are qualities that can help the team.

"I have no qualms about the decision. He has been pestering me for ages so now he gets his chance."