Foster set for Reds comeback

United goalkeeper Ben Foster is set to make his return from knee ligament damage in the Reserves' clash with Middlesbrough tonight.

The 24-year-old underwent knee surgery last summer and, after a gruelling recovery process, has been named in the Reds' squad by Brian McClair and Jim Ryan.

Foster's United career to date has been a strange tale. Despite joining three years ago from Stoke City, his injury and two seasons on loan at Watford have prevented him from making a single competitive appearance for the Reds.

The England international has resigned himself to waiting until next season for a first team opening at Old Trafford, but Thursday's match against Boro will be a welcome step in the right direction.

Foster is the oldest member of a strong squad for the Teessiders' visit. Chris Eagles, Gerard Pique and Danny Simpson are also included, alongside the highly-rated Rodrigo Possebon and Danny Welbeck.

Thursday's match takes place at the Marston's Arena, Northwich, with a 7pm kick-off. The game is live on MUTV, with coverage starting at 18:30 GMT.

United squad: Foster, Zieler; Pique, Lea, Simpson, Eckersley, Chester, James;
Hewson, Cleverley, Eagles, Possebon, C Evans; Bryan, Welbeck, Fagan.