There had been fears the Serbia international had suffered a season-ending injury when he landed awkwardly during United's 2-0 win against Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

But a scan on Wednesday brought relief to United, with a spokesman telling the club's official website: "There is no major damage to the left knee, and he will be out for two to three weeks."

strong alliance

That length of absence will see Vidic miss the Barclays Premier League matches with Middlesbrough and Arsenal, and also the return against Roma, but he looks likely to be fit for the Champions League semi-finals should United progress.

Vidic and Rio Ferdinand have formed a strong alliance in the centre of a United defence that has conceded just 15 league goals this season.

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