However, the England forward has trained this week and is contention to make the journey to White Hart Lane.

“He is training and he should be fit for Sunday,” confirmed Ferguson.

Skipper Nemanja Vidic is also expected to be fit after sitting out last Sunday's FA Cup triumph over Liverpool, whilst veteran keeper Edwin van der Sar is a "possible" according to Ferguson after missing three games with a virus.

Meanwhile, the United boss confirmed no talks had taken place with Ryan Giggs over another contract extension for next season.

However, given the Scot’s assessment of Giggs’ performance against Liverpool at Old Trafford, it seems certain the winger will be granted another 12 months.

“Ryan is an incredible human being,” said Ferguson. “He defies the logic of forwards when he plays at the level he did last Sunday.

“Obviously we know how to manage him. He doesn’t play every week but he makes a contribution that lifts the team. He did that in the second half last week. He was outstanding.

“His fitness was fantastic. He kept going for the whole 90 minutes. He has been doing that for two decades. No other player has ever done that – or is ever likely to. He is quite an amazing man.”

That will be welcome news for the 37-year-old, who, having ruled out an international comeback, is keen to extend his club career for as long as possible.

“I am feeling good and as long as I am feeling good and still enjoying it, I will carry on playing,” he told the Manchester Evening News. “As long as the club wants me as well, I will.”