Fergie Fosters England ambition for keeper

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Ben Foster can become England's first-choice goalkeeper now he has fully recovered from a knee operation.

The 24-year-old was impressive in the 1-0 victory against Orlando Pirates on Tuesday night in the Vodacom Challenge match in South Africa.

Foster returned to the team ahead of schedule in March against Derby following surgery, and he is now expected to challenge Edwin van der Sar for the jersey in the coming season. And Ferguson said: "I still believe Ben will be England's goalkeeper for the next few years.

He added: "We did not expect him to get fit so quickly last season and I did not include him in our European squad.

"When I saw his performance against Derby there was maybe some regret on my part.

"The ability he has he is going to be challenging for a first-team place next season. That can only be good news for England.

"With an experienced goalkeeper like David James coming back in the squad it tells you there is an opportunity for someone like Ben."

However, Ferguson confirmed that Van der Sar would be his number one next season.

"It will be difficult for Ben only because he is in competition with one of the best goalkeepers of all time, " said the United boss.

"Edwin is a man of great experience and consistency and has looked after himself so well."