courtesy manutd.com
Rio Ferdinand is back in training, but Sir Alex Ferguson is already planning for the England international to miss United's visit to Sunderland.
The influential centre-back has missed the Reds' last two games, but he is more likely to return in next Wednesday's clash with Porto than on Saturday.
With Jonny Evans also struggling with an ankle injury, Sir Alex told his pre-match press conference that John O'Shea could partner Nemanja Vidic in the centre of defence against the Black Cats.
The potential for more defensive re-shuffles is tempered by the availability of Wayne Rooney for the trip to Wearside, with Sir Alex laughing off suggestions that he would miss the match with a rib injury.
There are also comebacks looming for Rafael and Wes Brown which, along with the impending returns of Ferdinand and Dimitar Berbatov, gives the Reds' squad a healthier appearance.
"Rio started running today," said Sir Alex. "Rafael started training on Tuesday - he will be available for next weekend, and Wes will start football training next week."
