Manchester United vs Blackburn Rovers preview - United's defensive problems mounting

Posted Saturday, December 31, 2011 by PA

Sir Alex Ferguson must once again contend with massive defensive problems ahead of Manchester United's Premier League encounter with rock bottom Blackburn.

Jonny Evans (calf) has joined Nemanja Vidic (knee), Chris Smalling (tonsillitis) and Fabio (hamstring) on the sidelines.

Phil Jones (illness) and Rio Ferdinand (back) could be involved, otherwise Michael Carrick may have to partner Patrice Evra in central defence, with Antonio Valencia at right-back.

"We can cope," said Ferguson, "especially in home games.

"Michael Carrick's form has been one of the key points in recent wins. He can pass the ball and has the height, pace and experience.

"It wasn't a problem for him against Wigan. He was flawless.

"Patrice also has the experience and the spring to head the ball.

"If that is the case then fine. We will get on with it.

"We are at home. We will have the majority of the ball. We have to make sure we are positive when we have it and do enough to win."

Martin Olsson is hoping to make his long-awaited Blackburn comeback.

The Swede has featured just once for Steve Kean's men since November 5 after suffering a hamstring injury but could ease a major injury crisis for the Lancashire outfit.

David Dunn and Junior Hoilett (both hamstring) face late tests but goalkeeper Paul Robinson (calf) is amongst seven senior players definitely out, as is Gael Givet, even though the Frenchman has returned to training following a minor heart procedure.

Boss Steve Kean expects to be busy in January as he attempts to guide his side away from relegation trouble.

"We are going to need to strengthen," he said.

"When you see how many defenders are out injured, it is clear we need to get some bodies in, and at the start of the window if possible.

"But it will be done under the radar.

"We have mentioned names before and said certain people were coming in, then it doesn't happen.

"We were doing it all for the right reasons and were never leading the fans along by mentioning names that weren't real. But we were putting pressure on ourselves.

"This time, with the benefit of hindsight, we will not mention anyone.

"We just want to do it nice and quietly and at the same time push as many people out of the treatment room as we can."