Rio to have fitness test before Chelsea game

Sir Alex Ferguson will give Rio Ferdinand a late fitness test ahead of tonight's Premiership trip to Chelsea.

Sir Alex Ferguson will give Rio Ferdinand a late fitness test ahead of tonight's Premiership trip to Chelsea.

Ferdinand suffered an ankle injury in a pre-season friendly against Boca Juniors. He will travel south with the United party but seems unlikely to be risked at Stamford Bridge.

Fabien Barthez, who is recovering from a hip problem, is also struggling for the game. But the keeper could be fit to face Zalaegerszeg in the club's vital Champions League qualifier at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

PA