Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson expects captain Roy Keane to be back in action for next Sunday's Premiership game against Blackburn at Ewood Park.
The former Republic of Ireland captain has recovered from a hip operation and plans to test his fitness in a reserve game against Newcastle on Thursday.
If there are no problems he is likely to go straight into the senior squad the following Sunday for his first Premiership outing since August.
"Roy is back doing terrific training," said Ferguson.
"There is a chance he will play in the reserve game next Thursday. If he does then I would have him available for the game away at Blackburn."
Keane will continue his build up in training on Monday.
He last played for the club in the 1-1 draw with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on August 31st.
