Double Cup blow for United

Gabriel Heinze will miss the FA Cup final whilst Gary Neville is also a major doubt.

It has been confirmed that Gabriel Heinze will definitely miss the domestic season's climax, whilst Gary Neville is also a major doubt as United aim to salvage their season with some silverware.

The news is a big blow to The Red Devils as Argentinian defender Heinze has been one of the club's most impressive performers this season.

The former Paris Saint Germain man has failed to recover from the ankle injury he sustained against Newcastle in April, and was a major doubt ever since picking up the problem.

The United back-line could be further weakened with the absence of Neville as the England international is struggling with a groin strain, although treatment on the injury will continue until the last minute.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the double blow and reserved particular sympathy for the impressive Heinze.

"Gaby doesn't want to be ruled out at the moment but I do not see him playing," said Ferguson.

"Gary is a concern because he is not training. We have got medical people working on him and we will give him every chance but it is not looking good.

"It is very disappointing because they are both experienced players. I particularly feel for Gaby.

"He has been fantastic for us this season, he's a real winner and he deserves to play but I do feel it's beyond him."

These latest developments will no doubt be tempered with the knowledge that Arsenal's star man Thierry Henry has already been ruled out with an Achilles problem.

However Ferguson is believed to be cautious as to the chances of the French star appearing in Cardiff, despite Henry's insistence that he will not make the showpiece event.