Alex Ferguson: Rio Ferdinand Will Be Back In Manchester United Action By Christmas

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has reassured supporters about the fitness of centre-back Rio Ferdiand. The Scot expects the defender to be back in action by Christmas.

Ferdinand has been struggling to shake off a calf injury that is connected to his long-standing back problem and has been sidelined for much of this season.

Nevertheless, Ferguson won't be rushing the player back into action.

"Rio isn't far away now," the Scot told Sky Sports.

"He is doing much better and thinks he is at the level he was when he was playing last time. But we have got to handle it correctly.

"He is seeing the right medical people and I would expect him to be back before Christmas.

"I don't think we would consider an operation. You don't operate on a back unless it is really serious and it's not that bad.