Park's festive return?

Ji-sung Park could provide United with some early Christmas cheer, with Sir Alex revealing the South Korea international is close to making his long-anticipated return.

Park, 26, hasn't played since damaging his knee against Blackburn Rovers in March but the manager told Manchester United Radio he expects the midfielder to feature in his plans soon.

"Ji-sung Park is now training with the first-team and should be ready in a couple of weeks," Sir Alex said. "He'll be back in the fold in about two weeks' time, I think."

Going on that prognosis, it's possible Park could find himself back on the pitch when Everton arrive at Old Trafford on Sunday 23 December. If so, nobody will be more pleased than the United boss.

"He's a terrific young player and his return will be a great boost for us," he said. "He gives us more options going forward, which is good news."