Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are nearing first team returns, but aren’t quite ready to be included in the squad that faces Chelsea tomorrow.
The manager will continue to rely on youth as he plots a second win at Stamford Bridge in 4 days but will have to do so with the two young England internationals.
It was thought Smalling would be ready to make an appearance after Sir Alex stated the 22 year old was back in full training, but speaking today Ferguson stated that Smalling would have to wait to make his first appearance of the season:
“We will try to push Chris on quickly.
“I don’t think he will make Wednesday’s game [against Chelsea] but I am sure he will be ready for the following week.
“There was some hope both he and Phil would be back for this busy schedule.
“Phil will be starting football training next Monday, he still has some running to do.
“The good news is they are not far away.”
