Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has refuted suggestions Danny Welbeck had been dumped into the reserves on Wednesday night as punishment for his elaborate goal celebration at Derby last weekend.

Instead, it transpired the England Under-21 star played against Wigan's second string purely to keep his fitness up before he also joins the United squad for what will be his first appearance in a major final.

"Danny Welbeck had to play with the reserves because I had Wayne Rooney back and the boy was needing football," said the United boss.

"He did very well against Derby and then played the full game against Wigan reserves and scored two goals.

"He will also be available for the Carling Cup final."