Anderson out until February

Manchester United will be without midfielder Anderson until February with a knee injury.

The Brazilian picked up the injury in United’s Champions League victory against Otelul Galati earlier this month.

“Anderson is not fit until February, he’s gone to see a specialist in Portugal about his knee,” manager Sir Alex Ferguson told reporters.

“We didn’t expect that and it’s a blow.”

Anderson has been in good form in United’s depleted midfield this season scoring two goals in eight games which doubles his tally of strikes since joining the club in 2007.

Ferguson was dealt a boost, however, with Wayne Rooney’s return to fitness which may see him resume his run in midfield against Newcastle United on Saturday.