Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson revealed that John O’Shea will start next week’s Champions League final against Barcelona. O’Shea has filled in at right-back because of injuries to Wes Brown and Gary Neville and the United manager boss said he was keen to reward the 28-year-old’s unstinting service.

“He can play anywhere for me: all along the back four, midfield - he’s even played in goal for a short period - and because of injuries to Gary and Wes he’s been a permanent fixture,” Ferguson said of the Republic of Ireland international.

“He takes his place in Rome because he deserves it, because he is ahead of everyone now. He is a fantastic, top professional.”

Ferguson also warned Rio Ferdinand he may miss out on a starting place in Rome if he cannot prove his fitness by the weekend.

The England centre-back has missed the last three matches since sustaining a calf injury in the Champions League semi-final second leg victory over Arsenal at the Emirates on May 5th.

Ferguson is optimistic the 30-year-old will be available for Sunday’s final Premier League match of the season at Hull as that will prevent him having to make a difficult decision in his team selection.

“I am hoping he will be fit for Sunday, if not he is doubtful for Wednesday that is for sure,” Ferguson added.

“I think he needs a game going into the Champions League final because him having not played for three weeks is too much. The plan is for him to start training with us tomorrow and once we get football training we will have a better idea of his availability for Sunday.

“I think he is probably fit to play Wednesday but whether I would start him without a game is another matter.”