Sir Alex Ferguson has virtually dashed any hope Anderson had of making next week's Carling Cup Final while ruling out Gary Neville and Wes Brown of Wednesday's match with Fulham.The good news for the Scot is that Wayne Rooney has returned to the squad after seven matches absent with a hamstring problem.

 

Anderson, who would almost certainly have been involved against Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday week, is still some weeks away from a return to action after suffering an ankle injury in the latter stages of the semi-final win over Derby.

Neville is still recovering from a virus, while Brown has not yet reached full fitness, despite a couple of substitute appearances after an ankle operation. Neither man will be considered for the Cottagers clash, as United look to stretch their lead at the top of the table to five points.

Dimitar Berbatov, meanwhile, has signalled his desire to land a first Premier League crown.

"The players here who have already won it, need it again and again and again," he said.

"I have none of that. When I am here, it is like I need it - I want it.

"With the help of everybody, with the right amount of effort on the pitch and with the team we have, I am pretty sure we can win it again."