Ferdinand stayed behind while the 19 man squad flew out to Portugal this morning, leaving United without their first choice defensive pairing of Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic who is currently missing with a calf problem.
It is not thought Ferdinand has suffered a fresh injury. However, after making his first appearance in a month during the 5-0 romp at the Reebok, but with Chelsea coming to Old Trafford this weekend, Ferguson won’t want to take any chances with the player.
With Ferdinand out, it is likely to mean a move into central defence for Phil Jones who would be making his debut in the competition.