• Capital One Cup

Vidic set for Sunderland return

ESPN staff
January 6, 2014
Nemanja Vidic was left out for Manchester United's 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Swansea © Getty Images
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Nemanja Vidic will return to the Manchester United defence for the first leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final against Sunderland on Tuesday.

Vidic, 32, was not even on the bench for Sunday's FA Cup third-round defeat to Swansea, with Rio Ferdinand taking his place in the starting XI.

But United manager David Moyes had told the centre-back he was being rested and is certain to start at the Stadium of Light, a source told ESPN.

United goalkeeper David de Gea and left-back Patrice Evra are also likely to be recalled after they were given a rare rest against Swansea, while midfielder Michael Carrick - an unused substitute in the 2-1 loss - should start.

Moyes is waiting to see if Wayne Rooney, who missed the FA Cup exit with a groin problem, will be able to return, but Robin van Persie, who has a thigh injury, is still unavailable.

However, the United boss is optimistic that the versatile Phil Jones, who has missed the last four games with a knee injury, will be back soon.

Moyes said on Friday: "He's getting better, he's coming on. I don't think he's too far away."

Marouane Fellaini and Nani remain sidelined, Ferdinand is also a doubt, while Fabio da Silva starts a three-match suspension following his red card against Swansea.

Ashley Young and Rafael da Silva also missed Sunday's match due to injury.

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