Owen Hargreaves is still hoping to make a recovery from knee tendonitis in time to make England's World Cup squad, according to a friend of the player.

The midfielder was withdrawn from Manchester United's Champions League squad this week, but a friend was quoted by the Independent as suggesting that the Canadian-born player is still optimistic he can get back in action in sufficient time.

"Owen wants very much to be part of England and it is February now and the World Cup is not until June, so there is time," the source commented, adding that Hargreaves' style of play demands that he be "fully fit" before he can take to the field.

Those who are trying to recover from tendonitis may find that ultrasound therapy helps them to gain fitness sooner.

Owen Hargreaves' current problems contrast with his previous successes, which include playing for England in the last World Cup and being part of the Manchester United team that won the Champions League in 2008.