Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed claims his midfield is short of quality. Ferguson announced Anderson would be missing until February yesterday.

"We are not as bad as people think," said Ferguson.

"Ryan Giggs gives you experience. Michael Carrick had a bit of a problem with his Achilles in the early season but he is over that now and his form in the last two games has been outstanding.

"Darren Fletcher, given the right preparation, is always a very good player for us.

"But getting Cleverley back at Christmas time would be a bonus because he is such a clever footballer."