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Ferguson expects Hernandez and Rio stay

Javier Hernandez has a future at Manchester United, according to Sir Alex Ferguson © PA Photos

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has given his side a boost heading into Monday's potentially title-winning clash against Aston Villa, insisting he expects Javier Hernandez and Rio Ferdinand to remain at Old Trafford next season.

The arrival of Robin van Persie at United and rumours of a move for Atletico Madrid's Radamel Falcao in the summer have increased speculation Hernandez could look to secure regular football elsewhere.

The 24-year-old has scored 16 goals for United, despite being relegated to the bench for much of the season, and Ferguson insists Hernandez is still an important part of the club's future.

"There is no reason to think this is not the place for him [Hernandez]," Ferguson said. "We hope he feels as though he has made a contribution. He has scored 16 goals. When he came on the other night [at West Ham] his movement was terrific. He created a lot of openings for us.

"I thought we were pretty unlucky not to win it. Their goalkeeper made a couple of saves, one shot was cleared off the line and he was very unlucky with a header. Hernandez has got these things in his locker all the time. His enthusiasm to play is always there."

Ferdinand's contract expires at the season's end and he is believed to have stalled negotiations on a one-year extension, bidding for a longer deal with United. But Ferguson is adamant the defender will not look to move overseas.

"I've spoken to Rio," Ferguson said. "At this moment in time, he's more concerned about getting opposition for his testimonial game. He's working on that for the moment.

"We want him to stay and obviously I'm sure his representatives will be discussing things with [chief executive] David Gill. I wouldn't imagine that [moving abroad] would be the best thing for him."

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