Manchester United veteran defender Gary Neville will be first-choice for the Carling Cup final against Tottenham.

That is, if he proves his fitness.

The long-serving Manchester United full-back signed a new contract on Friday after proving he still has plenty to offer at Old Trafford after coming back from a long-term injury.

Although a virus will prohibit his involvement against Blackburn at the weekend and a UEFA Champions Leagues clash with Inter Milan in midweek, Ferguson expects to be able to call on the experienced campaigner at Wembley.

"Gary is back training now," Ferguson told MUTV.

"He is doing all the physical work now and will be into football training on Monday so he will be available for the Carling Cup final."