Sir Alex Ferguson will be missing for David Moyes' competitive debut as Manchester United manager.

The Daily Mail says Ferguson may miss the start of the new season as he is laid up in hospital for a hip operation.

The former Manchester United boss, 71, is also facing weeks of physiotherapy in the aftermath of the procedure.

It is highly unlikely Ferguson, who stepped down after 26 years in charge at Old Trafford, will be ready in time for the Community Shield match against Wigan on August 11.