Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves will be fit for the start of next season.

Hargreaves has been forced to undergo two operations under the guidance of Colorado-based knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman in a bid to cure a tendinitis problem that has plagued him since his arrival from Bayern Munich 18 months ago.

"Owen had a second operation last week and it was completely successful," said the United boss. "This one is completely clear and I am certain he will be ready for the start of next season."

He added: "It was better than the last one, which was much more difficult."

Hargreaves has been restricted to just three appearances this season and has not been on first team duty since the draw at Chelsea in mid-September.