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Manchester United will be without England defender Rio Ferdinand when they aim to create history by beating Aston Villa in the Carling Cup final on Sunday. Ferdinand is out after suffering a twinge in his back while Anderson (knee) is out for the season. Ryan Giggs (arm) is also out and Nani is suspended while Rafael is set to feature in his first major final. United have never successfully defended a cup competition before but having overcome Tottenham on penalties last term, would put that right by winning on Sunday. | |||||
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Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov is winning his battle to be fit for the Wembley clash. The Bulgarian has resumed training after a virus forced him to miss the midweek FA Cup win over Crystal Palace. Villa boss Martin O'Neill appears to have no major fresh injury worries, and goalkeeper Brad Friedel, central defender James Collins and striker Emile Heskey will come into contention after being rested for the Palace match. Reserve goalkeeper Brad Guzan has played in all of Villa's previous matches in the competition this season but has looked uncertain in recent games and O'Neill is likely to choose the experienced Friedel ahead of him. | |||||