Sir Alex Ferguson is considering sending goalkeeper Ben Foster on loan, following his recovery from knee ligament damage.Foster, 24, played 90 minutes for the reserves on Thursday night after a 10-month absence and came through the match unscathed.

A number of clubs have made enquiries about the England international's availability - he spent the last two seasons at Watford - and Ferguson said: "We might put him out on loan until the end of the season.

"I think that would be good for Ben and I will have a chat with him early next week.

"We have already had a few enquiries for him from the Championship and will consider these options."

With England current number one David James visiting Old Trafford with Portsmouth on Saturday, Ferguson has reminded national team boss Fabio Capello of Foster's qualities.

"Everyone recognises that he is potentially the top goalkeeper England have available," said the United boss. "I think he is above them all.

"He came through the reserve game without any problems. We are very pleased, because he is a fantastic prospect."

Meanwhile, club captain Gary Neville is now making good progress after almost a year on the sidelines with an ankle injury.

Ferguson added: "He is much better, and we are trying to make sure he has no recurrence of the small injuries that have held him back."

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