Manchester United captain Gary Neville could return to the squad for Saturday's top of the table clash at Arsenal after ending a long injury absence by playing for the reserves.

The 32-year-old England [Images] defender, out of action since March, featured for just under an hour of a local county cup match against Stockport County which United won 6-1 on Thursday.

Neville was initially sidelined by ankle ligament damage before a planned comeback earlier this season was delayed by thigh and calf injuries.

"Missing the end of last season was bad enough but then for it to go into this season is doubly frustrating. Hopefully it's over now and I can get back into the team," he told United Radio.

If he is not selected for second-placed United's match with Premier League leaders Arsenal, Neville will hope to return against Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League on Wednesday.