Ferdinand has been ruled out of the last three games with a calf injury and Sir Alex Ferguson indicated that the England defender won't start against Barca before having some action.

Premiership champions United will visit strugglers Hull City next week, in a league finale that could well see the Red Devils field a fringe side, apart from Ferdinand.

"Hopefully Rio’s fit for Sunday. If not, he’s a doubt [for the final]," United boss Ferguson told the club's official site.

"If he doesn’t play on Sunday then he won’t start in Rome."

Should Ferdinand miss the Barca showdown, Jonny Evans will likely partner Nemanja Vidic at the heart of defense.