Ferguson positive over defenders

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are both expected back on Manchester United duty within the next fortnight.

Smalling, who suffered a broken metatarsal during pre-season, is making progress and it seems both he and Jones, who is also yet to make a senior appearance this season after having a knee operation, will be returning at roughly the same time.

"Chris has trained with (reserve coach) Warren Joyce for a couple of days now but it is non-contact at the moment," Sir Alex Ferguson said. "But the encouraging thing is he is definitely on the way back.

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