Man United tempted to hold back Louis Saha

Striker Louis Saha may be left behind when Manchester United travel to Italy for Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, first leg with Roma.

Saha is nearing full fitness after five weeks out with a hamstring injury.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson feels Saha is fit enough for a place on the bench at the Olympic Stadium.

But the United boss may feel a run-out in Thursday's reserve team game with Blackburn will better suit the French striker ahead of the season's run-in.

Midfielder Darren Fletcher is also set to play for the second string after making a quicker than expected return from the ankle injury picked up in the FA Cup fifth-round replay at Reading in February.

Meanwhile, Roma defender Christian Panucci has warned United winger Cristiano Ronaldo he can expect no favours from the referee.

Panucci told the Daily Mail: "Ronaldo's class is unquestionable but he exaggerates his falls and we won't fall for tricks.

"I believe he abuses his dribbling talents and a lot will depend on the referee but in Roma, Ronaldo will not be daring enough to do it."

Brazilian striker Mancini added: "I've watched Premier League matches and he is protected by referees. I don't think he will be on Wednesday."