Fergie upbeat but cautious

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United hold a 2-0 advantage over Roma going into the second leg and look set to face Barcelona, 1-0 winners against Schalke in their opening match.

Responding to a suggestion that his side are the form team in the Champions League, Ferguson said: "I watch games in Europe and see different types of football. That makes it difficult to assess where we are. The best way to assess it is if we get to the final."

He added: "You can be the best team and lose. That's why we are not in the FA Cup final.

"We are looking for consistency. If we can get it in Europe, like we have at home, then we have a chance. Barcelona are a marvellous club and have a good team. But these things are never easy."

Roma still harbour hopes of winning Serie A but have beaten United only once in five previous meetings in the last year.

Ferguson said: "We have one foot in the semi-final and the clock is against Roma. But nothing is certain in football. You cannot take anything for granted.

"We have been involved with Roma a lot recently and I do not think they will change anything in their approach to this match. We have to counter any danger. When you are at home you have to express your performance in a big way and hopefully we can do that."

Ferguson will make a decision on Wednesday morning as to Rio Ferdinand's fitness after he suffered a foot injury at the weekend, but should the England defender fail to make it then either Gary Neville or Mikael Silvestre are poised to return to the team.

Ferguson said: "I am hoping Rio will play. His scan was clear, that was the important thing. Therefore we are hoping we can get him fit to face Roma."