By Chris O'Brien
November 12 2005

Sir Alex Ferguson looks set to ease Gary Neville back into competitive action following a hernia operation. The 30-year-old is poised to start next week's friendly as a Manchester United 'XI' takes on Burton Albion.

Gary Neville looks set to start his comeback from injury next week. The England international will be part of a Manchester United 'XI' that will face non-league Burton Albion in a friendly encounter to mark the opening of the club's new Pirelli Stadium.

Sir Alex Ferguson is keen for Neville to return to action as quickly as possible following a hernia operation. The Red Devils have been short in defence due to numerous injury problems and will be boosted by the return of the influential Neville, who is aiming to be fit for Saturday-week's Premiership clash at Charlton.

The 30-year-old has been out of action since August. His last appearance saw United destroy Hungarian Champions League opponents Debrecen and United have suffered in his absence.

The game at Burton will be a momentous occasion for the Midlands outfit. The opening of the 6,000-capacity ground underlined the ambitions of Nigel Clough's side to earn promotion from the Conference and compete in the Football League for the first-time.

Burton chairman Ben Robinson is hopeful the occasion can be marked by a strike United side visiting the £6.9million stadium: "Sir Alex said he would bring along his strongest available side and as there are no reserve fixtures next week, we're hoping he'll include a few big names."