Brown ready to answer Fergie’s call

WES Brown was set to return for Manchester United when the Premier League champions begin the defence of their title against Birmingham at Old Trafford tomorrow.

Brown suffered a thigh problem during a pre-season game against Boca Juniors last month.

However, he has come through training unscathed and may be pressed into service by Sir Alex Ferguson, given a clutch of defensive injuries that have hit the Red Devils camp.

Nemanja Vidic had already been ruled out by a calf problem and while Gary Neville has, like Brown, trained this week, he is behind in his preparation.

In addition, Jonny Evans aggravated an ankle injury he suffered during Sunday’s Community Shield defeat to Chelsea when he began international duty with Northern Ireland.

Although Evans was immediately ordered back to Manchester by national boss Nigel Worthington, it may not be enough to guarantee his fitness to face Alex McLeish’s men.

Brown and Fabio could both occupy full-back positions, with John O’Shea switching to central defence to partner Rio Ferdinand.