Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that David Beckham is fit to face Chelsea in the Worthington Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford.

It had been reported that the England midfielder had suffered a knee problem in the 3-0 victory over West Ham on Saturday.

But Ferguson said: "He didn't. He has trained and there's no problem."

Beckham could start after having to settle for a place on the bench in his first two matches after recovering from a broken rib.

Such has been United's remarkable transformation in recent weeks that he has hardly been missed.

Striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has filled Beckham's place on the right of midfield, could also play after shrugging off a slight calf strain sustained on Saturday.

United go into the quarter-final on the back of seven consecutive wins and four clean sheets.

Ferguson insists he will field a strong squad for this game and states they are in it to win it.

He said: "There's no question that in the last few games the players have increased their performance level.

"But the attitude has been good all along. That's the foundation of where we are at the moment. We are pleased.

"I don't know what side I will field against Chelsea - I'm mulling it over.

"But I know Chelsea will field their strongest side. I must recognise that and make sure we have a side that can win.

"We want to give one or two players experience but the main structure of the team will be the same as on Saturday.

"A home draw in a quarter-final is always a great incentive. There's no question we want to win the cup."

Claudio Ranieri wants to cement his transformation of Chelsea from also-rans to Premiership big guns by delivering Worthington Cup glory.

The Italian acknowledges the need to prove his side's development by stocking up the Stamford Bridge trophy cabinet.

Ranieri said: "We want to win things but haven't won anything yet. The Worthington Cup, FA Cup and the title are very important for us at the moment.

"Manchester United are in good condition. I watched their match against Deportivo La Coruna and they played great football without their stars. It was fantastic.

"But I try to study my opponents a lot and find weakness. This is very important.

"Every match is difficult but we want to go forward in this cup."

Ranieri, like Ferguson, is taking the Worthington Cup very seriously and will field a full-strength side.

Marcel Desailly is back in the squad after missing the 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough for undisclosed personal reasons.