Looks like Fergie can go back into full "tinkering" mode.
"Because of the number of games, you're going to have to make changes anyway. I think we will find that we will make changes at Middlesbrough on Boxing Day or against Birmingham next Saturday, Sunderland on New Year's Day, or Portsmouth in the FA Cup."
Ferguson added: "Rio will be fit for Saturday. He joined us for training last week after doing his bit with the physios."
Ananova
Just as he thought the Old Trafford injury jinx was coming to an end, Ferguson has lost Veron with an ankle injury, although the United chief has played down the seriousness of the problem.
David Beckham is more likely to earn a recall, while Laurent Blanc could also be a surprise starter.
By NEIL CUSTIS in the Sun.
DAVID BECKHAM will be rushed back into the Manchester United side in a bid to stop their title bid slipping again.
Beckham has indicated to Ferguson that he is ready to resume his role on the right wing after a month out with a broken rib.
But Roy Keane is going to have to wait before he can resume a regular place in the starting line-up.
He looked out of sorts as he came on for the last half hour after four months out following a hip operation.
Ferguson admitted: "Roy looked way off his normal game."