Fletcher facing final heartache

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he will find it tough to tell five unlucky title winners they will not be involved in Manchester United's Champions League final with Barcelona.

Although Ferguson's starting line–up can largely be predicted aside from two or three positions, the Red Devils' bench for the Wembley showpiece remains open to doubt.

Darren Fletcher's hopes of being involved seemed to reduce when he remained on the bench throughout Gary Neville's testimonial at Old Trafford last night, which would mean a second successive heartbreak given he was suspended for the 2009 defeat to the Catalans.

The involvement of Michael Owen last night hinted at looming disappointment, while Darron Gibson also seems destined to miss out.

Ferguson knows informing anyone not involved is a thankless task.

"It is not easy picking a team because you are dealing with the human side of the game," said Ferguson.

"Players have worked ever so hard for the team all season and it has been a squad game for us anyway. Unfortunately there is one person who has to tell them and that is me.”

Ryan Giggs — at the centre of a media storm over an alleged extra-marital affair — made a 30 minute cameo appearance in Neville's testimonial, creating a goal for Wayne Rooney. Juventus won the game 2-1.




United have confirmed they are close to signing Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea as a replacement for Edwin Van der Sar, who retires after Saturday’s match.

Ferguson said: “We've been working on it for quite a while.

“We identified him quite a while back as one we should go for.

"He's a young goalkeeper, very quick, good composure, presence and an outstanding replacement for Van der Sar.

De Gea made 45 appearances for Atletico this season, keeping 24 clean sheets.

He helped the capital club win the Europa League last term, although he is still to win his first senior cap for Spain.