Owen Hargreaves has been de-listed from Manchester United's Champions League squad for the knock-out stages of the tournament, indicating that he has failed to make the recovery from knee trouble that had been hoped.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson had previously included the Canadian-born midfielder in the squad after he returned to training following surgery on both knees carried out by renowned specialist Richard Steadman in a bid to cure a tendonitis problem.

He had suggested that the former Bayern Munich star would soon be back in first-team action, while England coach Fabio Capello had stated publicly that he hoped Hargreaves would recover in time to join his World Cup squad.

With Hargreaves being withdrawn, this prospect may have receded significantly.

Those suffering from persistent knee problems may find that ultrasound treatment aids recovery.

Fulham striker Andy Johnson will be the latest player to go under Dr Steadman's knife when he undergoes an exploratory operation this week to assess the extent of the damage to his knee.