Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones are expected to return to the Manchester United starting XI against Blackburn, according to The Times.
The paper claim Ferdinand, who has missed the last two games with a back problem, will make his return at Old Trafford on Saturday against struggling Blackburn.
Jones was taken off in United’s 5-0 win at Fulham with an injury to his cheekbone but the 19-year-old is due to return and feature against his former club in the lunchtime kick-off.
Sir Alex Ferguson will welcome the return of both players, particularly following the 5-0 win against Wigan where he was forced to play Michael Carrick at centre-back and Antonio Valencia at right-back. Rafael Da Silva has also returned from his lay-off and could make the first team against Blackburn.
There is also encouraging news surrounding the health of Chris Smalling, who is believed to be a week away from a return to action.
The 22-year-old defender missed the win over Wigan after contracting tonsillitis but is expected to return to the squad for the game against Newcastle – the club’s first of the 2012 calendar.
Rivals Manchester City play their next game on New Year’s Day, meaning should Sir Alex’s side avoid defeat to bottom of the table Blackburn, they will end the calendar year top of the pile.