Manchester United vs Wolves preview - Berbatov boost for beleaguered United

Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping Dimitar Berbatov recovers from an ankle injury to give Manchester United a much-needed lift ahead of the Old Trafford encounter with Wolves.

Skipper Nemanja Vidic (knee) has been ruled out for the rest of the season and other long-term casualties include Javier Hernandez and Tom Cleverley (both ankle), Michael Owen (thigh), Anderson (knee) and Brazilian twins Rafael and Fabio, who were both hurt in the Carling Cup defeat to Crystal Palace.

Michael Carrick returns from suspension and should start in midfield, with Phil Jones reverting to a defensive position.

Ferguson has thrown a cloak of protection around his young players, insisting they will not be "hounded" despite the Champions League catastrophe in midweek.

Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Nani, Ashley Young and David de Gea were all in Ferguson's midweek starting line-up, with Jonny Evans, Danny Welbeck and Federico Macheda introduced later on, all to no avail.

Yet, rather than allow such a negative experience to crush them, Ferguson insists he retains total trust in their talent and expects them to be the bedrock of a new United.

"We've experienced this many times over the years, going back to when (Ryan) Giggs and the other young lads came in to the side," he said.

"They came in for criticism, particularly against Aston Villa [in 1995].

"It has happened more recently with Wes Brown, John O'Shea and Darren Fletcher. They have all become the foundation of the club and that's what will happen with these young players.

"They have achieved many great things so far. Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck have played for their country.

"They had a nasty experience on Wednesday but they have the trust of myself and my coaches.

"They will not be hounded because of one bad performance. Time will prove us right."

Wolves midfielder is available after serving a one-match suspension.

Henry was unavailable for the 2-1 home success over Sunderland last weekend after incurring five bookings this season.

Central defender Jody Craddock is rated doubtful to overcome a hamstring injury suffered against the Black Cats.

His likely absence could mean a recall for skipper Roger Johnson who was dropped against Sunderland after a run of poor form.