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Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand may miss Arsenal clash following hamstring injury against Valencia

Rio Ferdinand is battling to overcome a hamstring problem in time to face Arsenal at Old Trafford next Monday after limping out of Manchester United’s 1-1 draw against Valencia.

Rio Ferdinand may miss Arsenal clash at Old Trafford follwing hamstring ijury against Valencia
Doubtful: injured Rio Ferdinand may now miss United's top-of-the-table clash with Arsenal on Monday Credit: Photo: AP

The England captain, who appeared to have banished concerns over his long-term fitness since returning from a knee ligament injury in September, was replaced by Chris Smalling five minutes into the second half of the Champions League Group C tie.

And although Sir Alex Ferguson expects the 32-year-old to prove his fitness in time for the clash with Arsene Wenger’s Premier League leaders, the United manager admits he erred on the side of caution by withdrawing the defender.

Ferguson said: “Rio has a tight hamstring and we couldn't take any chances with the game against Arsenal next Monday.

“It's a tight hamstring, not a pull, so I'm sure he will be ok for the game, but we weren't prepared top take any chances.

“He felt it at half time and wanted to see how it went, but he should be ok because he's got six days to recover.”

Anderson’s first goals at Old Trafford – and only his second in 109 appearances – ensured that United secured top spot in the group, thus avoiding Real Madrid and Barcelona in the draw for the last 16 on Dec 17.

The Brazilian midfielder has struggled to justify his £19m price tag since arriving from Porto in May 2007, but Ferguson believes his goal could act as a springboard for the 22-year-old.

He said: “He should get more (goals). He's a terrific talent. He has great pace and power. We're pleased he got the goal and it may help him.”