United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed Anderson’s injury problem in his pre-match press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Newcastle this weekend.
Fergie said: “Vida back of course, Smalling fit is a boost, Rafa also back. Defensive part is OK.
“Anderson not fit til February, gone to see specialist in Portugal re knee, we didn’t expect that, it’s a blow.
“Cleverley is the other midfielder out for a while now. But we’re not as bad as people think we are in midfield with the experience of Giggs, Carrick and Fletcher, and if we get Cleverley back for Christmas, that’ll be a bonus.”
Ferguson confirmed that the Brazilian star is going to Portugal to get treatment.
