Ferguson backs Scholes

Man U manager feels the midfielder has a role in their treble quest

LONDON: Sir Alex Ferguson believes experienced midfielder Paul Scholes could play an important part in Manchester United’ bid this season to match their treble achievement of 1999.

The 33-year-old former England midfielder is expected to feature in Wednesday’ league match at home to Portsmouth after ending three months out following a knee operation with a substitute appearance in last weekend’s 3-1 FA Cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

“Something special seems to happen when the ball goes to him. He has an innate sense of composure about him,” said United boss Ferguson. “The game just seems to stop so he controls it. He is an amazing player.”

Scholes underwent an operation to repair his cartilage in October after pulling up before the Champions League match against Dynamo Kiev. United, top of the Premier League on goal difference from Arsenal - who they will face in the last 16 of the FA Cup next month following Monday’s draw — are currently in with a chance of winning domestic title, the FA Cup and the Champions League where their next opponents are French club Lyon.