Being able to recall Ferdinand from the ankle injury which has kept him out so far this season would be a major boost to Ferguson’s side, who drew 2-2 at Chelsea last night.

The United boss revealed: “Rio is very close. It would have been a risk to have played him against Chelsea and I didn’t think that risk was worthwhile so early on in the season.

“He’ll certainly be fit for next Saturday but it’s touch and go for Tuesday.”

Ferguson disclosed he is close to making at least one new signing to strengthen his defence before the transfer window shuts on August 31.

“We could maybe do something by Monday. We are very close to one or two things, but time is running out,” he said.

United are reportedly due to hold another meeting with Rennes tomorrow over the projected £2m (€3.12) purchase of French Under-21 defender Julien Escude.

They are furthermore said to be in talks with Boca Juniors over 21-year-old full-back Nicolas Bordino, while the search has also been on for a back-up keeper.

Although Ferdinand will be welcomed back with open arms, as will Gary Neville when he is fit again, Mikael Silvestre and John O’Shea continue to make progress.

Silvestre was heavily involved in the build-up to both of United’s goals last night as David Beckham and Ryan Giggs struck equalisers after Chelsea had twice gone ahead.

Beckham dedicated his goal to the memory of murdered schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, who were wearing United shirts with his name and number seven on the back when they disappeared.

He said: “It’s hard to get your mind on football when this sort of stuff happens outside the game.

“The minute’s silence was special. The whole nation is grieving. It’s an upsetting time and our thoughts obviously go to the families. So it was nice for me to score tonight and I dedicate the goal to them.”

Although United have made an uncertain start to the season, to put it mildly, Ferguson feels there were distinct signs of improvement at Stamford Bridge.

“We played some excellent football in the second-half. The passing and movement, desire and enthusiasm were a pleasure to see,” he declared.

He added: “John O’Shea is improving all the time. He’s still young and had two of the best centre-forwards around up against him.

“He got better and better as the game went on and I’m not at all surprised that he was man-of-the-match. I’m delighted for him.”

O’Shea told Sky Sports: “It’s a dream come true for me to play against these players. I was watching them a few years ago and now I’m playing against them.

“I’m playing with a good partner in Laurent Blanc. You need such high concentration to play in the Premiership.

“But I’m delighted to be a part of our team – I’m lucky to have the chance because of Rio’s injury.”

Asked if he could keep Ferdinand out when he regains fitness, O’Shea admitted: “I don’t know. That’s the big question isn’t it?”