Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has explained the absence of Nemanja Vidic for victory over Newcastle United.

Vidic was back on the bench today but Ferguson did not want to use him after the centre-back made his first start since September at Swansea City.

"We couldn't risk Vida after playing his first game," said Ferguson.

"He had a bit of soreness in his knee, which is only to be expected after being out for so long."