Manchester United are concerned over Gary Neville's fitness problems.

Neville was again withdrawn from last night's reserve-team game against Sunderland, though he is training with the first team squad.

The Times says Neville's problems are a cause for concern in the long term for United, particularly as Wes Brown, his stand-in, has yet to agree a new contract. Brown's present deal expires at the end of the season and, in theory, he would be free to sign a precontract agreement with an overseas club from January 1 if nothing has been agreed.

United maintain that this will not happen and are aware that the defender wants to stay, but sources at the club have indicated that the parties remain some way off an agreement.