Many have heard the news today that Ferguson is hoping for Owen Hargreaves to be available for the fixture against AC Milan.  It appears that Ferguson is starting to get more confident with Hargreaves getting back to business.  I'm not so sure at this point, as I'd imagine he will need to get up to match fitness, considering the length of time he has been out of the side.  I'd expect him to play in a reserves match or two before even stepping into the first team.  And once he does get himself in the first team squad, I'd expect Fergie to be using him sparingly until we are 100% certain he is over his injuries.

Without a doubt, I would love for him to be available as he brings so much to the squad and if, a big if at this point, fully fit would definitely be a strong addition for the run in.  Prior to his recent injuries, Owen was moving up the charts in terms of key players in the league and in the National team.  He may not have the technical ability that others do, but makes up for it in his workrate, ability to run forever, and determination.  It's no coincidence we won the Champions League with him in the squad, filling in any role that was asked of him and performing well.

So, if we could get him back in the squad for the run in what type of benefits can he provide?

Cover - Being a player that can be effective in many positions would be a great asset, especially during the run in when we are competing on both the Champions League and Premier League front.  Our squad will be stretched and has already been, by injuries.  Having someone capable to slot into these positions without worrying is instrumental in making a title challenge.  A fit Hargreaves can play at right back, right mid, central mid and would provide cover in those areas.  And more so, if he's fully fit and back to the levels we have come to expect of him, he wouldn't just be cover but a starter in the side that would make a large impact.

Goals - Many would agree, since the departure of one: Cristiano Ronaldo, we have been lacking in our ability to convert spot kicks to goals.  Hargreaves has great ability to put the ball in the back of the net from just outside the 18 yard box, as we saw against Arsenal in the 07/08 season.  That goal may well have put us on our way to win the league that year.  Further to this, with the workrate that Hargreaves brings to the pitch he does find himself in forward positions at times and has a good foot on him, as well as being able to provide a deadly ball when on the wing.

Defensive Ability - Our loss in last years CL final was considered to be due to the fact that we could not shut down the likes of Xavi and Iniesta.  Yes, we were without Darren Fletcher for this match but with him, combined with Hargreaves, in the middle chasing around opposing midfielders we would be a very hard team to break down and boss the midfield against.  Match these two up with the likes of a Scholes or Carrick who can maintain possession and distribute the ball effectively and we can really boss some matches.

Many of the United faithful have drawn tired of hearing about Hargreaves and have slated him off due to his challenges.  Yes, it has been frustrating, but could you imagine being in his shoes.  As one of the players many were tying their national teams side success to, as well as missing out with his club which was winning and competing in all of the top competitions in the world.  I'm sure he is chomping at the bit to get back to his best and put this period of his career behind him.  Let's get behind him and hope he can overcome this crisis, so that we add another dimension of strength to the squad, if not this year, than even the impact he can make next season.