Vidic ruled out for ten days

Nemanja Vidic is set for a 10-day spell on the sidelines after tweaking a nerve in his leg immediately before Manchester United's shock FA Cup defeat to Leeds last Sunday.

The mystery surrounding Vidic's withdrawal following the warm-up intensified immediately after the 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford when Ferguson stated he did not know why the Serbian had missed the game.

There followed a period of intense discussion about the 28-year-old's future, with speculation about a move to Real Madrid only diffused when Vidic claimed he had a "marvellous relationship" with his boss.

However, Ferguson has now clarified the situation, and confirmed Vidic will miss tomorrow's trip to Birmingham, plus next Saturday's encounter with Burnley.

"He felt a bit of a problem with the right side of his leg and didn't feel confident about playing the game," said the United boss.

"I understand that because it was quite painful.

"We sent him to a specialist on Wednesday and the problem will be solved by some exercises we are going to have to give him now.

"He should be back in about 10 days' time."