Sir Alex Ferguson has described Owen Hargreaves’ return to fitness as like a new signing for Manchester United Football Club.

The England international has not played for the first team since September 2008, due to longstanding problems with both of his knees.

However, Hargreaves, 29-year-old, appeared for the reserves in midweek, and is due to step up his rehabilitation in time to make his return to Ferguson’s plans before the end of the season.

“It's a boost to the boy," the United boss told Sky Sports News. "When you are out for a year-and-a-half, it's a long way back. We expected the recovery to be quicker.

“But I think he will need a couple of games for the reserves. We should have him for the end of the season. He is like a signing, bringing him into the group at this stage of the season."

Get all the latest news on your club. Visit 360 Football, the best football news aggregator on the web!