Manchester United duo Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young will both miss Sunday’s game at Saints due to injury.

Rooney is set to be out for four weeks after suffering a deep gash to his thigh sustained against Fulham last weekend.

Young is out for a fortnight with a knee problem.

United Medical staff were alarmed by the extent of the wound, leading to speculation Rooney could be out for longer than was originally anticipated.

However, that is not going to be the case.

“He should be back in four weeks,” said Ferguson.

“He was in yesterday. It is nothing serious on the gash. It is a bad one but he was treated quickly so we don't expect any complications.

“And the fact it is a gash rather than a ligament or joint injury means he can do a lot of work in the gym.”

Ferguson also confirmed Ashley Young, who was omitted from the England squad yesterday, had picked up a knee injury, although he was evidently not impressed at how the information became public.

“It was nice of the FA to let everyone know that Ashley Young is injured,” he said.

“There is no point in giving them any information now.

“He got a knee injury last week. It is not serious. He will be ready in a couple of weeks' time.”