Manchester United duo Anderson and Paul Pogba to miss rest of season

Anderson will not play again this season (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United midfield duo Anderson and Paul Pogba have been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

Anderson has been battling to recover from a hamstring injury, whilst Pogba suffered an ankle problem in a reserve game earlier this week and Ferguson has conceded both will miss the Premier League title run-in.

"Anderson is not going to play again this season and Paul got injured in Monday and he is out for the season," said Ferguson.

In truth, neither man was expected to play a significant role over the next four games.

However, Ferguson has confirmed veteran striker Michael Owen has returned to training and could play some part, if not against Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday, then the following games against Manchester City, Swansea and Sunderland.

"I have said time and time again that Michael is a player who can score important goals if you are struggling in a match," said Ferguson.

"He has had a hard time with injuries. When he gets them it is usually months."

Ferguson also confirmed Ashley Young should shake off a minor knock to feature against David Moyes' men.

The game marks another appearance for Wayne Rooney against his old club.

Rooney only requires one more goal to equal George Best and Dennis Viollet in the all-time United scoring charts, that pair reaching 176.

However, Ferguson sees no reason why Rooney cannot overtake the club record of 249 currently held by Sir Bobby Charlton.

"He has every chance of beating that - I am sure he will do it," said Ferguson.

PA