Alex Ferguson is hopeful that Dimitar Berbatov will be in contention for a starting role against Chelsea on Sunday.

The Bulgarian striker missed last night’s Champions League draw with Villarreal with a “slight” knee injury, but Ferguson seems optimistic on his chances of being available for the Stamford Bridge clash.

“I think he (Berbatov) has a good chance and hopefully he is fit,” remarked Sir Alex after the game.

The United boss is also monitoring the fitness of Ronaldo, hinting that a role from the bench would be likely for the returning winger.

“That was his first game back so it is a big ask to think about Sunday,” said Ferguson.

As for the situation at the back – it appears that Jonny Evans could be in line for surprise starting role, in the light of Vidic’s suspension for Sunday’s game. Ferguson has the option of playing Brown alongside Ferdinand, with Neville or O’Shea coming in at right back. On this evidence of Ferguson’s post match comments however, it appears that Evans has every chance of starting against Chelsea.

“Vidic is suspended and that is why I played Jonny Evans [against Villarreal] and he did very well indeed.”