According to Ferguson, Rio Ferdinand remains a doubt for the encounter with Liverpool on Sunday [source].

Ferdinand has missed the last two matches with a back problem and despite Ferguson’s comments earlier in the week that hinted at a return, there is clearly some complications with the injury. Talking on the injury to Vidic in last night’s win over Bolton, Ferguson assures us on his fitness but is certainly less optimistic on Ferdinand.

“Vidic was elbowed in the nose again and the bleeding wouldn’t stop,” remarked Ferguson. “Hopefully he’ll be okay and will get sorted by Sunday.

“Rio Ferdinand is more doubtful, that’s why I played Pique to find out his form and to give him the experience of playing because it gives us an alternative.”

Should Rio not be available, it seems likely that Brown will once again be called upon to partner Vidic, with Hargreaves or O’Shea brought in at right-back.