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Ferguson confident he will be fit for United's title defence despite summer hip operation

Published: 17:30 EDT, 4 May 2013 | Updated: 17:30 EDT, 4 May 2013

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Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed reports he will miss the start of Manchester United's Premier League title defence next season following hip surgery.

The United manager will have his right hip replaced at some point this summer and is expected to have the surgery after the club's three-week tour of Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong - although Ferguson insists a date for the routine operation has not yet been set.

Last night, Ferguson assured supporters he has every intention of being in the dugout at the start of a campaign to claim what would be his 14th Premier League crown.

Surgery: Sir Alex Ferguson will undergo a hip operation after Manchester United's pre-season tour

'There is no definite date for the operation yet,' he said. 'But I'm confident that everything will be sorted out before the season starts. I don't envisage any problems.'

Ferguson, who had a pacemaker fitted in 2004 to regulate his heartbeat, stated in February the only reason he would consider retiring from football management would be on health grounds.

But the news he requires hip surgery has not caused him to even consider that eventuality.

I'll drink to that: Ferguson celebrates United's 20th top-flight title with star signing Robin van Persie (left)

The 71-year-old remains as concerned as ever with his relentless pursuit of improvement at Old Trafford and has already turned his thoughts to this summer's transfer market.

Ferguson is confident the Glazer family will back him this summer if he wants to sign a world star, such as Atletico Madrid's Radamel Falcao.

Interest: Ferguson is hopeful of luring prolific striker Radamel Falcao to Old Trafford this summer

Incoming Old Trafford chief executive Ed Woodward was cautious about United's spending plans this week, despite the club's latest financial results showing quarterly revenues rising to £91million.

But Ferguson, who signed Robin van Persie from Arsenal last year to inspire a record 20th title for United, is confident he would be backed by the club's hierarchy again if he felt there was a player who could improve the club's chances of success in the Champions League.