Nani closing on training return - Jones also set for comeback to hand United a fitness boost

Nani: Could return to training with United this week after foot injury

Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United winger Nani could return to training this week as he continues his recovery from a foot injury.

The manager also revealed defender Phil Jones will be available for Monday's Premier League encounter with Fulham after shrugging off a bout of the flu which caused him to miss last weekend's 5-0 thrashing of Wolves.

Portugal international Nani has been absent for United's last three games after picking up an injury in training but is closing on a comeback.

His return would provide a significant boost for the Red Devils with nine games remaining as they push for the Premier League title this season.

No problems

Ferguson told the club's official website: "There are no problems with injuries.

"It's much better now. There was Jones getting that bout of 'flu but he's back. Jones was actually back on Friday but we didn't risk him on Sunday. He'll be available [for the Fulham game].

"So they're all training apart from Nani, who should not be far away and might start training this week, while Anderson and Michael Owen are the only other ones out.

"Nemanja Vidic and Darren Fletcher are obviously still long term."