United star nearing full-fitness

(03-09-2010) Rio Ferdinand is ready to make a first-team return, according to Manchester United reserve team boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The elegant defender, out since picking up a knee injury in the weeks leading up to the World Cup, came through a second-string clash with Oldham on Wednesday. He now seems to be on track to face Everton at Goodison Park on 11 September. "Rio is always the same player," commented Solskjaer. "It is a while since he has played but he was still calm. He has get through an important 45 minutes, straight after two very hard training sessions yesterday and the day before so we are delighted with him." Her added: "It was always planned that he would play 45 minutes. I am not sure he needs any more games. Rio is a naturally fit lad.”