Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has suffered a new injury setback.

Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that Rio Ferdinand was omitted from the starting line-up for last night's 5-0 Barclays Premier League victory at Fulham because of a foot injury.

The England defender will miss the clash with Wigan on Boxing Day, but should return in time to face Blackburn on New Year's Eve.

"Rio got a knock on the foot against QPR. I think he will be available for Blackburn, not Wigan," said Ferguson.