Briefs - a round up of Championships news

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson is ready to restore Wayne Rooney to a central striking role against Bolton this weekend. Ferguson has also allayed fears over Rio Ferdinand’s ability to make a full recovery from his current injury.

Striker Didier Drogba is to hold talks on his future with Chelsea at the end of the season.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini could axe striker Mario Balotelli after his red card as the club exited the Europa League against Dynamo Kiev on Thursday night.

Arsene Wenger, Samir Nasri and Joe Jordan have all been banned for one match by UEFA.

Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury.

Manchester United defender John O’Shea is set to be out for five weeks and Rafael is likely to be sidelined for three with injuries picked up against Marseille.

Aston Villa duo James Collins and Richard Dunne have been fined over a recent spat with the club’s coaching staff.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has decided not appeal against a five-match touchline ban for comments he made about referee Martin Atkinson after his side’s defeat at Chelsea.