Ferguson plays down Van Persie injury

The English Premier League's top scorer was replaced by Danny Welbeck after an awkward fall shortly before half-time saw him hurt his hip in Saturday's 2-0 win at Queens Park Rangers.

Ferguson gave an update on his condition after the final whistle, saying: "Van Persie seems to have collided with the camera dugout. We will assess him tomorrow – it was his hip.

"It will be tender but hopefully he will be all right in time for the Real Madrid game."

The tie against Real is delicately poised at 1-1 after the first leg, with the second match to be played at Old Trafford on March 5.

Ferguson was delighted by his side's win against QPR, highlighting their strong defensive performance against Harry Redknapp's men.

"It was a great result, for us another game away," Ferguson said after his team went 15 points clear at the top.

"It was one of those games which was lively, on a tight ground, not a great deal of football played. From us it was more of a determination, a concentration on defending to get through it."

Ferguson was full of praise for the 'amazing' Ryan Giggs, who sealed the win with his 80th-minute goal at Loftus Road.

But the Scot reserved special mention for full-back Rafael after the Brazilian struck a stunning 23rd-minute half-volley into the top corner, leaving Julio Cesar helpless.

"It was unbelievable, goal of the month I would imagine," Ferguson said. 

"We were just starting to get into the game a little bit. It was a marvelous hit."

Despite being seven points from safety with 11 games to play, Redknapp retains hope of surviving in the top flight.

"I think it depends a lot on if I can get Bobby (Zamora) fit and playing. (Loic) Remy gives us something to hang on to and we've got to try to score some goals," Redknapp said.

"I don't think it's impossible. Other people will say I'm crazy to think that, but I think there's a chance. 

"And while there's a chance, I won't be giving up and will make sure the players don't give up."