Manchester United's Owen Hargreaves will miss the start
of the season after suffering another setback following a series of
knee problems.
The England international midfielder, 29, made only one
substitute appearance in the last campaign after an 18-month
absence through injury.
It was hoped he could join United on their summer tour - they
leave for their training camp in Chicago on Monday - but instead he
is having further treatment.
Sir Alex Ferguson told MUTV: "The bad news is that Owen
Hargreaves is back in America seeing a specialist.
"He will not be ready for the start of the season. I do not know
when he will be back."
Ferguson also fears Rio Ferdinand will not be ready for the
first game of the season against Newcastle.
The England defender suffered a knee injury in training ahead of
the World Cup match with the United States and was unable to play
in South Africa.
Ferguson said: "Rio will probably not make the start of the
season. It will be close. It depends on his progress over the next
few weeks."
While Ferguson is pleased with Michael Owen's progress following
a hamstring injury the striker will skip the tour as he builds up
his fitness.
Ferguson said: "Michael is doing great. He is working in the gym
every day. I do not think he will be fit to go to America but he
should be ready for the start of the season."
Antonio Valencia and Nani are expected to available for the
Newcastle match, according to the Old Trafford boss, after
suffering an ankle injury and broken collarbone respectively.
Meanwhile Anderson is on course to return in September following
a knee injury.
Ferguson added: "Cruciates are cruciates. He is doing fine and
working hard."
