Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled out any possibility of Ben Foster going out on loan to further his World Cup dream.With Edwin van der Sar due to return for United against Burnley and Tomasz Kuszczak establishing himself as the veteran Dutchman's deputy in the last 11 games, Foster has slipped to number three in the Old Trafford pecking order.

Given he was Fabio Capello's first-choice in the last two England internationals, it is little wonder Foster has already expressed his frustration at the situation, nor that speculation is mounting the former Watford star will be allowed to leave during the current transfer window.

Yet Ferguson insists that will not happen. And, without actually offering an explanation how, the United boss feels Foster can play enough matches to keep his England spot.

"There is absolutely no chance of loaning Ben out, absolutely none," he said.

"The World Cup is four months ahead. Let's hope he gets some football that gives him a chance.

"It is Fabio's decision but Ben's qualities are going to put him forward as a definite choice and England are not endowed with great goalkeepers."

On the other hand, Ferguson feels he is, especially as Kuszczak has produced some eye-catching performances of late.

Yet the United manager expects Kuszczak to show an element of understanding should Van der Sar get the nod against Burnley.

Initially ruled out by a knee injury picked up against Everton on November 21, Van der Sar has more recently been back home in Holland helping wife Annemarie, who collapsed before Christmas after suffering a stroke, from which she has since thankfully recovered.

"I know that for a young lad like Tomasz it will be disappointing because he has been doing well," said Ferguson.

"But he has to understand that bringing Edwin back is going to help him because he can only gain from watching Van der Sar.

"Edwin cannot last forever, of course, and these moments should be cherished by Tomasz learning from someone like him."

The decision though will be automatic providing, as expected, Van der Sar tells Ferguson he feels fit and in the right frame of mind to play what would be only his eight game of what has turned out to be a frustrating season for the 39-year-old given it started with him breaking two fingers during a pre-season friendly in Munich.

"Experience is vital and Edwin has it," said Ferguson.

"People point to the record of the back four last season but you have to look at Edwin.

"Fourteen clean sheets is an amazing number and he is a phenomenal goalkeeper.

"Bringing him back won't be a problem for me."