United boosted by shrinking injury list

Central defender Rio Ferdinand returned at West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday after a back injury to help the champions move three points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 5-0 victory.

Midfielder Park Ji-sung and defender Wes Brown also played at the Hawthorns and manager Alex Ferguson hopes to have further reinforcements for Saturday's match against Everton with left back Patrice Evra and midfielder Nani expected to be fit.

"Things are looking up and players are starting to come back," Ferguson told MUTV.

"Patrice may have a chance for Saturday against Everton. If the game had still been on Monday I'd say he'll definitely play. But he's still got a chance of making it. Nani should also be fit for Saturday as well."

Striker Wayne Rooney is still recovering from a hamstring and Jonny Evans, Rafael, Fabio and Anderson are also sidelined.

"Wayne has never had a hamstring injury before and there is no way we will bring him back early," Ferguson said.

"He's doing terrific work in the gym and, in terms of his rehabilitation, he is on the mend. But we said at the time he was injured that it would be three or four weeks before he would be fit and there is no change there."

United's home clash with Everton was brought forward to Saturday because the visitors are involved in an FA Cup replay against Liverpool next week.

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