Gary Neville could provide Manchester United with a major injury boost ahead of this weekend's trip to Sheffield United.

Neville aggravated a calf injury in last week's win at Blackburn and manager Alex Ferguson withdrew him from the England squad for yesterday's friendly with Holland.

But Neville believes the problem is not as serious as first feared and he could yet play some part at Bramall Lane as United look for a win to consolidate their position at the Premiership summit.

"I feel okay," he told MUTV. "The injury is not as bad as I first thought. We will see how it goes in training but hopefully I will be in contention for this weekend."

Neville has struggled for a consistent runs of games this season and after missing seven of United's 17 games so far this term, will be anxious not to avoid any more.

Ferguson may have other ideas though, particularly as the Red Devils are facing up to a huge week, which also includes a mouthwatering Champions League trip to Celtic before Chelsea arrive for a Premiership blockbuster on November 26.

Having won their last six league games, United are certainly entering the most congested period of the season so far in fine form, although Neville understands the need to maintain the momentum.

"Our form is going well," he said. "We are happy with the way we have been playing. The way we have been passing the ball and moving it around, it is difficult for any team to live with us.

"But we have to maintain that high level of performance because we are about to embark on our biggest period of the season.

"We have about 16 matches in the next two months. In the next four weeks alone we play Chelsea, Everton, Middlesbrough and Manchester City, games that are always difficult for us.

"Up to now, we have done everything that has been asked of us. We want to keep it going."