The central defender has been sidelined for three games with a calf problem and, although United have thrived in his absence, Ferguson respects Tony Pulis' Potters immensely and does not expect a sixth successive win to come easily.

The Scot told www.manutd.com: "I'm hoping Rio will be okay for Saturday. When you go to Stoke you need a bit of experience. Rio came into the team when we played at Bolton and gave us that experience, so we hope he'll be fit for Saturday."

United have been imperious so far this season, scoring 21 goals and conceding only four in five straight wins, but Stoke have a point to prove after losing their unbeaten record in a shock 4-0 defeat by Sunderland last weekend.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle insists there will be no tension in the dug-out between himself and Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The pair fell out over Arsenal's valuation of Gary Cahill during last month's transfer window, resulting in the defender remaining at Bolton.

Coyle claimed the matter is already forgotten, saying: "I am a huge admirer of Arsene Wenger. I have come up against him many times and there will be no tension."

Indeed, Coyle defended Wenger amid the huge amount of criticism that has been heaped on the Frenchman during an abysmal start to the season, from which they have so far collected only four points.

"It is absolutely ridiculous," said Coyle, whose side will be attempting to halt a run of four successive Premier League defeats.

"Arsene Wenger is one of the best managers in world football, and always will be."

Two players who returned from lengthy absences for their clubs in the Carling Cup in midweek could be in line for first Premier League appearances of the season on Saturday.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was a substitute in the Reds' victory over Brighton yesterday and he could play some part in this weekend's clash with Wolves.

"It was good to be back with the lads," said Gerrard.

"I'd been out a long time and it was fantastic to be out there in that kit again and it was nice to get a win as well.

"It's been a nightmare for me. I'm not the best when I'm out injured and watching games. It's been tough and the last six months have been a rollercoaster.

"But it's behind me now and I'm looking forward to getting match fit and getting back in the starting line-up."

Gerrard's absence was minimal compared to that of Manchester City midfielder Owen Hargreaves, who scored the opening goal on his debut for the club against Birmingham last night three years after first succumbing to knee problems.

He said: "I would never have anticipated all these setbacks in my worst nightmare. You are left to pick up the pieces. That has been the biggest obstacle.

"It was a pretty humbling experience but I knew this day would come. Hopefully I will learn from it and make some changes and look forward to the future."

City will look to get back to winning ways against Everton on Saturday after last weekend's draw with Fulham, but the Toffees are on a five-match unbeaten run and have won seven of their last eight clashes with Roberto Mancini's men.

Third-placed Chelsea take on Swansea on Saturday and they should be able to call on Petr Cech despite the goalkeeper suffering concussion against Fulham yesterday.

Blackburn will hope to follow up last weekend's surprise win over Arsenal when they travel to in-form Newcastle while West Brom host Fulham and Tottenham travel to Wigan.

On Sunday, QPR take on Aston Villa at Loftus Road and the final match of the round sees Sunderland visit Norwich on Monday.