Pepe targets United game for return

Pepe is a little closer to his goal of being match fit in time for the game against Manchester United. On Wednesday, exactly a week before Ferguson's men visit the Santiago Bernabéu, the centre-back took yet another small step towards his recovery by taking part in a training match scheduled by Mourinho.

There is further proof that the Portuguese is on the road to recovery. Last Friday he started running and five days later he laced up his boots to take part in a game with the rest of his teammates.

If things go to plan, it hasn't been ruled out that the centre-back might make the squad for Saturday’s game against Sevilla and even play a part in it. The league game played in the run up to the Champions League will be the final test to see whether Mou can or can’t count on him for next Wednesday's game against United.

Pepe's return depends on Varane shaking off his injury. The Frenchman, who didn't play for France after picking up a hamstring injury against Granada, won't play against Sevilla. Mou will rest him ahead of the United game and that's where Pepe might have a chance of playing against the English side. If Varane isn't fully fit, Mourinho could pick Pepe ahead of Albiol or Carvalho.

If Pepe’s presence is confirmed, Mourinho might be able to field his first-choice defence against United, after a number of weeks having to make changes. Only Marcelo won’t be fit to play.