Hargreaves central to Fergie plans

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists Owen Hargreaves has a big role to play as his team chases glory on two fronts.

Ferguson has dismissed reports claiming the former Bayern Munich midfielder had angered him because of poor timekeeping and instead praised Hargreaves for the impact he made after coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 Champions League victory against Roma in midweek.

The England international could face Middlesbrough on Sunday and Ferguson said: "In many ways he changed the pattern of the game for us the other night. He did a fantastic job when he came on and he will be involved again on Sunday."

With six games remaining in the Barclays Premier League, United are in the driving seat but Chelsea and Arsenal could still overtake them.

Ferguson, however, remains single-minded, knowing they face a difficult game at Middlesbrough, who lost narrowly to Chelsea at the weekend.

He said: "It is important to do our own job well. With only two home games left, we have to make sure our form stays strong.

"We are approaching the finishing line. There is not long to go now but sometimes it is a lifetime away.

"At this time, nerves can play a part and form can play a part. We have to be consistent.

"We have to make sure we are at our best against Middlesbrough. There is no question they should have got something from the game with Chelsea."