Valencia & Anderson returns close

Antonio Valencia could play in Manchester United's FA Cup quarter-final on March 12, while Anderson is sidelined for just two to three weeks.

Midfielder Anderson was reportedly set for a two-month lay-off with a knee injury, but ahead of the Champions League clash with Marseille, Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that the Brazilian was in Portugal for treatment and is expected to return to fitness within three weeks.

Valencia has been out of action since suffering a badly broken ankle in the opening match of this season's Champions League against Rangers in September.

But the Ecuador international returned to training last week and Ferguson confirmed a first-team appearance has been pencilled in against either Arsenal or Leyton Orient.

"Antonio is training very well now," the United boss said in a press conference in Marseille before Wednesday's last-16 clash.

"He is involved on the contact side and the signs are very encouraging. We expect him to be ready by the cup tie."

Valencia was one of seven senior players who were missing when the Red Devils flew out of Manchester on Tuesday morning.

However, Ferguson does not view it as an insurmountable problem, especially as most of the absentees will be back for the second leg at Old Trafford in three weeks' time.

"Anderson got injured in the first half on Saturday," Ferguson added.

"We have sent him to Portugal to see a specialist he has dealt with over there. That will be two weeks, three at the most.

"Ryan Giggs should be okay for the Wigan game on Saturday, while Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans should be back for the Chelsea game next week.

"We have missed Park Ji-sung because he has been such a good player for us, but he should be back in two or three weeks."