Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he rushed in Owen Hargreaves for yesterday's defeat at Manchester City.

The England man delivered an impressive performance at Eastlands, but will miss England's friendly with Germany due to lingering knee problems.

"Owen Hargreaves did absolutely superb. His knees are a bit sore and he will need a few days to recover," said Ferguson, who said there will be no panic at his team's poor start.

"At this moment in time we have to rely on our experience and make sure we do not get carried away with a knee-jerk reaction."