Vidic to go on Man United tour

Vidic remained in Manchester when United headed off to South Africa and China last month.

However, he has now completed his recovery from a cruciate operation and will be around to bolster Ferguson's defensive options at a time when both Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling are on the sidelines.

In addition, fullback Rafael is still on international duty, meaning Ferguson only has four first-choice defenders available after the return of his EURO 2012 contingent.

"Chris Smalling is out for 10 weeks with his metatarsal operation and Jonny Evans is still just in light training," Ferguson told www.manutd.com

"They are big losses and they will miss the start of the season.

"Rafael is away but we do have Phil Jones, Nemanja Vidic, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra.

"That will be the back four on tour.

"Hopefully we don't get any more injuries as it would leave me a bit short."

United faces Norwegian outfit Valerenga this weekend, then Barcelona in Gothenburg before concluding its pre-season programme away to Bundesliga side Hannover on 11 August.

It is anticipated goalkeeper David de Gea will also join the United party earlier than anticipated after Spain's shock group stage Olympic exit.