Injured at Goodison Park

By Chris,
December 31 2011

Sir Alex Ferguson admits that Tom Cleverley is “nowhere near” returning to first-team action. News reports in the North West had hinted that the player may be in action for United’s festive fixtures, but he is still struggling with an ankle problem which has seen him out of action since October.

The midfielder has been out of action since exiting United’s 1-0 win at Everton with an ankle injury, where he was replaced by Nani in the 56th minute

Cleverley has burst onto the scene this season with a host of impressive performances from midfield, including a 90-minute shift during the 8-2 hammering of Arsenal.

United boss Ferguson has admitted that the player is “still nowhere near” returning, as the club continues to suffer from a host of injury problems.

Sir Alex said: “Cleverley’s a massive loss. He, to my mind, is probably the best midfield player in Britain, potentially. He has fantastic promise, so it’s a loss to us.”

Prior to limping off at Goodison Park, Cleverley had made seven United appearances this season. In recent years, he has enjoyed loan spells at Wigan, Watford and Leicester.