By Chris O'Brien
November 15 2005

Former Stretford End 'cult' hero Diego Forlan is a doubt for Villarreal's forthcoming visit to Old Trafford. A recurrence of a niggling hamstring problem could see La Liga's 2005 top scorer miss out the crucial Champions League clash.

Former Manchester United forward Diego Forlan is a doubt for his much-anticipated return to Old Trafford.

Villarreal take on the Red Devils in a crucial Champions League tie on November 22nd, and the on-form Forlan has only slim hopes of making the game that is pivotal to the qualification hopes of both teams. Last season's La Liga golden boot winner is suffering with a recurrence of a hamstring injury picked up during Uruguay's recent World Cup play-off win over Australia.

Forlan, despite establishing himself as a cult figure amongst supporters, struggled during his short spell at Old Trafford and hit only 17 goals in 98 appearances. He has found his form since a ?move to Spain and is now regarded as one of the most dangerous strikers on the continent.

Supporters had been looking forward to Forlan's return to Old Trafford, but few expected United to be outside the top two qualification spots ahead of the game. With United desperately needed three points, the absence of the free-scoring Uruguayan, recently linked with a move to rivals Arsenal, will be a timely boost to Sir Alex Ferguson's side who sit third in pool D with five points and a dissappointing two goals from four games.