Rio Ferdinand has broken down in Manchester United training.

The Daily Star Sunday says Ferdinand suffered a leg-muscle problem on Friday, missed training yesterday and is virtually certain to be absent for tomorrow's opening match of the season at Everton.

His latest injury setback is being scanned and there are fears at United that he could be sidelined for weeks.

The blow to Ferdinand, 33, comes at a time when United have another three central defenders ­recovering from injuries - Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans.