Diouf in the frame for Ferguson

SIR Alex Ferguson is getting ready to hand Senegal striker Mame Biram Diouf his Manchester United debut.

Diouf was signed from Norwegian outfit Molde in the summer, but has only just been able to join United as he was allowed to remain with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s old club until the end of their domestic campaign.

The impressive 22–year–old has now received a work permit and international clearance. While Ferguson will not necessarily field Diouf in his squad for tomorrow’s trip to Birmingham City, but he has already allocated his newest recruit the number 32 shirt formerly worn by Carlos Tevez.

As United are welcoming a youngster, speculation is mounting that they are about to say goodbye to one of their old guard.

Gary Neville made his 583rd Red Devils appearance in Sunday’s dismal FA Cup defeat to Leeds United.

Whether he follows long–time team–mates Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes into the exclusive 600 club remains open to doubt.

Neville will be 35 next month, having spent the last three years battling to overcome injury.




Giggs’ honour



Manchester United star Ryan Giggs has received the Freedom of Salford during a ceremony at The Lowry.



The winger, Wales international and the 2009 BBC Sports Personality of the Year, joined previous recipients of the city’s highest honour, including Nelson Mandela, LS Lowry and David Lloyd George.