Sir Alex Ferguson believes South Africa will be equipped to host the World Cup in two years' time, despite concerns about the nation's ability to complete building work on new stadiums and to provide adequate transport links.

But the Manchester United manager is confident the authorities will rise to the challenge and put on a show for the global football community.

"South Africa has a lot to offer," Ferguson said. "Yes they have a job to do in terms of infrastructure. But they can manage that because they have major areas to host games in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.

"Johannesburg, which is the biggest platform for the World Cup, is a massive city and area. From a professional point of the view, the stadiums at the moment are great. They deserve a chance."

Ferguson has seen a massive change in the South African sporting landscape in the past few years as the country continues to bounce back from years of apartheid and subsequent isolation. "The country is growing - it is a developing country," he said. "It is also a sporting country. The changes have been phenomenal since Nelson Mandela came back. South Africa has got a great future and deserves a chance."

Ferguson believes club football in South Africa is also beginning to develop. United have had two tough, physical games in the last week against Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in the Vodacom Challenge. The Scot expects another hard work-out for his side on Saturday, whether it is against the Pirates or Chiefs, who play tonight for the chance to face United again. United then move on to Nigeria and a friendly against Portsmouth on Sunday before flying home.

The United manager looks certain to shuffle his pack in the final game of the tournament but Rio Ferdinand is likely to get another run-out after he played his first match of pre-season in midweek following a back spasm. The England defender showed no signs of the problem after being forced to sit out the draw against the Chiefs at the weekend and the friendly at Aberdeen.

Gary Neville also looks likely to be recalled as Wes Brown has returned home following the death of his half-sister.